Hey tournament help?

Question

So whenever I play practice, I play my best and really go for my shots. But it seems like whenever I play games in tournaments that I know I should win, I freeze up and hit the ball really softly just to get it in, and I focus solely on not letting the other person get a point. If im playing a guy im the real underdog to I play my best going for my shots most of the time. Can you guys give me tips on what to do if im playing an easier opponent which I will be on saturday.

Answer 1

You need to shut off your brain and stop thinking, you are getting too nervous. There is no reason to be nervous. It is a tennis match. The mortgage will still be paid, you aren't failing classes because you lose. Loosen up, relax and have fun. That is why we play.

You can try the bounce-hit technique. You say 'bounce' in your mind when the ball bounces, then hit. It focuses your mind on hitting, and not losing, or worrying about losing.

Answer 2

You can warm up first and just loosen up during the warm up against your opponent. When you start playing, you won't freeze as much. Try to just go for every ball and focus on getting it in, not just not letting the other person get a point. Just try to go for everything that will be in play. It's an easier opponent, so just try attack and hit it where the player isn't. Try to have more fun.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Don't be nervous, it is the killer.  Just go for your shots.  If you are not making them, then try something different.  Like serving and volleying for example if you usually do baseline rallies.  Just relax and have fun.

Answer 4

you need to concerntrate on the game as much as you concerntrate during practice