Being a tennis coach for a very long time helps me understand a lot of the things that go on in the tennis world. Even so, there are some things that I just don’t get. I have been on both ends of the hiring and firing coaching line. This has taught me to be patient,…
Here is a list of things that can help you win your tennis match. These are listed in order of importance. The more of these things that you execute in a match situation, the higher the chances of success. Tackle these one at a time! Steve Annacone, USPTA Elite Pro, is the Director of Annacone…
Pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in North America for three years running, with a whopping 36.5 million players in the U.S. alone and a paddle market topping $150 million. And it’s not just for kids and older folks—the biggest group of players is young adults aged 18 to 34. But there’s a catch: while…
Taking time away from your opponent in a tennis match is one of the best ways to draw errors. These days, most players are doing this by hitting their shots with a great amount of speed. Another very effective way to rush your opponent and take away time is to hit your shot more on…
Tennis players at all levels of the game tend to develop their own unique swing. We see similarities in players’ swings and shots but there are very few (if any) that are exactly the same. The professional players have many things in common (shoulder turn, early point of contact, etc.) but when comparing, there are…
The courts at Wimbledon have changed significantly in the 21st century. The grass used to be thicker, slicker, and actually a different type. This has enabled the baseline players to play more defense, get more balls back in play, and then be aggressive once they get into the point. They can basically play similar to…
Tennis can be a lonely sport. Until recently, even the pros were completely on their own during their matches. Although coaching is allowed on tour these days, the players still have the most control of how the match is played, as well as the outcome. Self coaching can be extremely helpful on the court. If…
How many times have you frantically checked (and re-checked) the forecast before a game, hoping the rain would hold off or the heatwave would break? Today, managing outdoor sports is becoming more and more like predicting the weather: a tricky and often unreliable task. Climate change is forcing society to adapt, and sports are no…
Even though the game of tennis has gotten faster and faster with players hitting the ball harder and harder, there is no substitute for good ball placement. A player who can target their opponent’s weaker shot, hit the ball to the open part of the court, and use the change of direction when the player…
Doubles seems like a very complicated game. Having four players on the tennis court definitely adds to the potential complexity of the points. However, a sound and simple strategy can help you overcome all of the chaos that you may encounter in a match. Use this basic strategy: try to get your first serve in play,…