Confidence: How to Get (or Reclaim) This Tennis Essential
Athletes generally perform at their best when they are playing with confidence. Tennis is no exception. Players with confidence believe they will succeed, while those lacking confidence don't, causing their shots, decision-making and overall game to suffer.
Anyone can go through rough stretches on the court where confidence is in short supply. So how do tennis players regain confidence? Or better yet, how can they sustain confidence and not allow doubt to creep into their mind in the first place? Let’s explore a few strategies.
The mental side
No player is in top form in every single match. How you respond to that makes all the difference. If you follow up with another poor match or a poor practice session, self-doubt can snowball, taking your remaining confidence with it. Here’s help avoiding that.
â–ºHave a short memory: If you play a poor match, put it behind you. Don't dwell on your mistakes, but instead, look forward to the following match and let that motivate you to play your best next time out.
â–ºSurround yourself with the right people: If your peers, coaches and parents are starting to harp on your game, it's going to drag you down. Seek out people who will support and encourage you when things aren't going well.
â–ºThink "will" not "can:” Instead of telling yourself, "I can make that shot," say "I will make that shot." Believing you "can" do something hints at the possibility that you can also fail at it. But saying that you "will" do it eliminates doubt.
The physical side
Now let’s consider the physical aspects of confidence and how to optimize them for your on-court performance.
â–ºPractice: Learn from your mistakes and sharpen the skills that let you down. Mastering your shortcomings will improve your overall game and help you assure yourself that what you lacked the last time won't be lacking again.
â–ºGo back to basics: In any game, even the best players need to take a step back sometimes and work on the fundamentals—from Tiger Woods to John McEnroe to Albert Pujols.
In tennis, confidence is key. Make sure that you're taking the proper mental and physical measures to keep it strong—even when you're scuffling. And see what a difference it makes in your game!
