Each player has something a little different to offer than the next, such is the beauty of the sport. Is it the racquets, the strings, the sneakers, the sun visors that lead to a winning game? Ultimately, no!
With proper training and a true love of the game, excellence will emerge one shot at a time. Once the gear is in place, it is what comes out of the player that will dictate the course of the play.
I have heard these thoughts from seasoned coaches, and have made the observation for myself. How many times have we said to ourselves, it's the racquet! My sneakers are too tight, the sun is in my eyes, my legs feel heavy!
This can all be very true, of course, you need compatible equipment for your game, but the difference is to not dwell on the superficial; instead make small adjustments and honest observations as you progress in your sport.
The internal aspect of tennis, or any sport for that matter, needs to be honed and perfected on a very personal level. The fine line is to work on your weaknesses, physical and mental as well, but... do not think too much about anything!!
How does one DO that?? With mental toughness, and also relying on your skill set and muscle memory.
That is why so many athletes practice, practice, practice. So, during those times when they have a few weaknesses creeping in, their physical acumen takes over, you can trust your body and muscle memory, you have earned it!!
And the memory is very real, you have built up the critical mass so as not to be denied when the going gets tough.
Remember CADENCE: bounce/hit; bounce/hit; bounce/hit. Say this loud and clear in your mind while on court- it blocks out all the other junk in our minds!!
So, relax! Practice, practice, practice, cadence, cadence, cadence, and enjoy the blessing of this wonderful game of tennis, and any other sport you are involved in.
These principles apply to anything you partake in, I practice them every day, and they do work, if ever so subtly.
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