Do You Put Too Much Pressure on Yourself? I love the psychology of tennis during big tournaments. The momentum shifts of a final match, such as Federer and Nadal in the 2009 Australian Open, are so fun to watch. Most tennis fans see the shots and strategy, but don’t pick up the psychology of the match – at least as much as I do. As a tennis … [Read more...] about Nadal’s Mental Toughness: Know Who You Are
psychology of tennis
Berdych’s Mental Game Helps Earn Title
Tomas Berdych defeated Juan Martin Del Potro 6-1, 6-4 to win the Japan Open and capture his first title this year. Berdych had a tough road to the final, with surprising wins over Andy Roddick and Fernando Gonzalez. After the tennis match, Berdych discussed the importance for focus on the court and said: "In this condition and at this level … [Read more...] about Berdych’s Mental Game Helps Earn Title
Your Concentration and Pressure Tennis
How well do you focus when feeling under pressure from tennis tournaments or matches? Does your focus wander or do you worry about results of the match such as what if… “I choke the lead away and embarrass myself?” In my work as a tennis psychology expert, many of my mental game students get caught in the trap of thinking too much about … [Read more...] about Your Concentration and Pressure Tennis
Does Perfectionism Cause You to Choke?
Many tennis players who are perfectionistic about their approach to tennis choke under tournament pressure. Perfectionism can hold them back from reaching their potential because they become tight, anxious, and over-control their performance. Don’t get me wrong. There are some advantages of perfectionism such as having a strong work ethic, … [Read more...] about Does Perfectionism Cause You to Choke?
Mental Imagery Styles in Your Tennis Game
Traditionally, mental imagery has been used by athletes to mentally practice motor skills outside of regular practice. It can also enhance your ability to perform motor skills in competition by improving focus; helping you make plans and develop strategies; and programming your body to execute tennis shots. Mental imagery and its components … [Read more...] about Mental Imagery Styles in Your Tennis Game
Parenting Perfectionist Young Tennis Players
Often, we hear from parents who worry about young athletes who are hard on themselves, become easily frustrated, and take disappointment home with them. You’re likely familiar with these types of athletes. They’re perfectionists or athletes who display perfectionistic behaviors. Perfectionistic athletes criticize themselves for making mistakes, … [Read more...] about Parenting Perfectionist Young Tennis Players
Top 8 Signs You Need a Better Mental Game
Let's face it, some tennis players have mental toughness while others allow their mind to interfere with peak performance on the tennis court. Many tennis players just don’t realize the importance of their mental game strength. What are the top signs your mental game is preventing your from performing to your potential on the tennis … [Read more...] about Top 8 Signs You Need a Better Mental Game