Billie Jean King famously said that pressure is a privilege. Players should embrace the stress of a big match or moment, and rise to the occasion. However, for many players that’s easier said than done.
The anxiety that comes with closing out a tight match, or relinquishing a comfortable lead can cause mental turmoil. Players who can’t control their emotions in these situations often fold, sometimes in rage-filled fashion. Developing a knack for coming through in the clutch takes practice and learned behaviors. These tips will get you started on the right track.
Concentrate on what you can control
This is probably the top priority when it comes to mental composure. Nothing will set you off the rails like stewing over bad breaks on important points. Let cords, a ball skidding off the line, the sun in your eyes—all things you can’t do anything about. In fact, although you have a significant impact on it, you can’t even control the result of a match. You can play some of the best tennis of your life and still lose. Because you can’t even control what your opponent does, either.
This means avoiding internal monologue about outcomes—I have to win this point—and instead prioritizing performance—I’m going to pepper my opponent’s backhand. This will help keep you in a more proactive, positive frame of mind, which will lead to playing better.
