Tip of the Week: Have a “Go To” Strategy

December 20, 2021 | By Steve Annacone
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Every tennis player should be aware of their strengths and weaknesses. I am a firm believer that it is more important to know and use your strengths than it is to know and attack your opponent’s weaknesses.

Most players will hit the ball more solid, be more decisive, and play an overall better point when they are using their best shots and strategies. Having a “go to” strategy will be extremely helpful when playing the crucial points during the match. My idea since my early 20’s has been to get into the net as often as possible on every point. Many players are very good at using a solid and consistent groundstroke idea to break down the opponent. Others use direction and accuracy to make their opponent move and force them into errors.

We are all familiar with the power players who basically try to hit the ball past you with the speed of their shots and frustrate the opponent by giving them very little rhythm. All of these (and many more) can be your “go to” strategy depending on your comfort level and how things have gone in your match.

Make sure you use the strategy that fits your strengths as often as possible and remind yourself to get back to it whenever you are struggling during your matches.

 


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