June 29, 2010 in Competition, Fearless Tennis, Mindset
As I’m sure you know, self-belief is critical if you expect to win at any level. The best in the game have it most of the time–especially Federer and Nadal. But, they too, have their moments, especially when they’re playing one another. Read the rest of this entry →
June 25, 2010 in Fearless Tennis
Of course we are all dumbfounded at not only the length of Isner and Mahut’s historic match, but how they could maintain their concentration under these conditions for that long. In an interview, Isner himself, had great difficulty articulating how this was possible: “I don’t know. I guess we both served incredibly well. It’s grass. We were hitting our spots, a lot.” Read the rest of this entry →
June 24, 2010 in Competition, Fearless Tennis, Mindset, Wimbledon
No doubt John Isner and Nicolaus Mahut are part of something amazing, absolutely amazing. Patrick McEnroe is right that win or lose Isner and Mahut have to feel special. They’ve touched every tennis player on the planet. This will be a memory they will never forget. Read the rest of this entry →
June 23, 2010 in Mindset, Wimbledon
Rafael Nadal exemplifies grit, perspective, hard work, discipline and motivation. Asked today about John McEnroe’s belief that if Nadal stays fit he could bag at least 12 Grand Slams, Rafa laughed. “I’ll see what happens at the end of my career,” Nadal responded. “I’m very happy to have seven Grand Slams already. This is more than I dreamed of. I feel very lucky. If I still improve my tennis I hope I have more chances to win. I just want to keep fighting to play well. I want enough motivation to keep practicing and get on the court. This is what I have done all my life.” Read the rest of this entry →
June 22, 2010 in Mindset, Wimbledon
We can learn a lot from the pros. Watch and listen this week and see what you can glean from their approach to the game. After all, if they are competing for their livelihoods, they must have figured a few things out about what mindset is optimal in competition. Read the rest of this entry →
June 19, 2010 in Junior Tennis
Establishing a healthy relationship between young players and their parents, given the overwhelming pressure to win in this game, requires our awareness, long-term vision and commitment. Player’s potential, self-esteem and long-term happiness are on the line. Read the rest of this entry →
June 19, 2010 in Competition
I think one of the more difficult challenges we all face in the game is making effective adjustments in the middle of a match. The key question is what factor(s) are responsible for the increase in unforced errors or sub-optimal execution of your shots (i.e forcing passing shots, low first serve percentage, going for too much at the wrong time). Is it the sudden awareness of physical tension that is causing you to hold back or overhit? Are you doubting your strokes which is creating moments of indecision just before you hit? Read the rest of this entry →
June 7, 2010 in Anxiety
Anxiety and physical tension are, arguably, two of the most damaging symptoms that can impede our ability to play our best tennis.
In my experience, getting our bodies loose when our nervous system is ramping up is a worthy pursuit, and achievable. The benefits are numerous: self-confidence, greater enjoyment, more passion and, ultimately, results. Read the rest of this entry →
June 4, 2010 in Confidence
In a press conference before the French Open began Roger Federer responded to the question, “So, Roger, do you think you can win the tournament?” Roger smiled and said, “Yeah, I do. Is that enough or do you want me to say more about it?” Why? Because I won the tournament last year, so I think I can win it this year.” Read the rest of this entry →
