Too often, players enter a match without a clear purpose.

Whether or not you adapt your tactics to your opponent, review your most effective shot sequences. Become a student of the game. Develop a plan to use specific patterns or shot types.

This will build confidence.

Is fear of failure or shaky self-belief holding you back from playing your best tennis, leaving you frustrated and second-guessing your abilities... all while your UTR stagnates?

What about the weight of expectations?

Afraid of letting down yourself, your coach, or your family?

Ever wonder how certain tennis players deliver their best shots when it matters most, defying the odds with ease?

It might seem like they were born with this talent.

But here's the kicker:

Natural ability is likely the least of their secrets.

The real game-changer? Unshakeable confidence.

If you want to be average, do a little of many different things.

If you want to be exceptional, do a lot of only a few things.

Pinpoint a few simple objectives for a match or practice session. Relentlessly pursue those specific goals.

Your 4-step plan to win your next tennis match:

The night before...
➟ Reflect on your strengths

The morning of...
➟ Identify 3 patterns of play to use

Before the match...
➟ 5 minutes of deep breathing

Before each point...
➟ Visualize your target and commit to it

Feeling good isn't a prerequisite for performing great.

Excellence often blooms when we embrace discomfort.

Approach the situation with your routine and strategy, while remaining adaptable.

Let consistent effort be your superpower.

Practicing mindfulness after a training session can take you to the next level.

During your cooldown, dedicate 5 minutes to taking deep breaths. Concentrate on the rhythm of your inhales and exhales. Clear your mind.

Afterward, dive into your practice reflection.

Tennis players:

Consistency wins.

Small gains over a long period outweigh sporadic big efforts. Put in the time, even when nobody is watching.

Hint: Someone is always watching.

Mental skills interact with tactical skills.

If you aren't composed during a tennis match, you can't properly analyze your opponent's patterns of play. You won't identify their weaknesses if you're busy beating yourself up.

Stay calm to conquer the tactical battle.

High performance can often be unhealthy.

Ideally, competitors find ways to balance their lives — but sacrifices are inevitable when aiming for the top. This can be difficult to accept.

What are you willing to sacrifice in your pursuit of excellence?

Train your routines when you are fatigued.

In fact, you should have drills where you purposely fatigue yourself. Then, practice using your tools to remain focused under pressure.

If you can’t do it in practice, how will you do it in the match?

Wishing everybody a great start to 2025.

Exciting times ahead. Can’t wait to see what is in store!

Ever notice your mind racing when preparing for a big point?

Your brain needs a target — something to focus on — rather than wandering freely. I recommend repeating 2-3 specific action cues to yourself.

This requires practice but is a powerful skill.

Nervous about an upcoming match?

Emotions are simply information. You might be unprepared, struggling in practice, or facing a tough opponent. But you could also just be excited.

You decide what meaning to take from your emotions — choose something helpful.

What's better than a new racket?

The confidence to take full swings at the ball. The belief to take the ball on the rise and step into the court. The trust in yourself to finish at the net after your approach shot.

Confidence is better than any new racket.

Two of the most important pieces of equipment for a tennis player might not be what you expect:

1. Pen
2. Paper

This is all you need to journal. Growth requires self-awareness, and journaling fosters that self-awareness. Write your way to tennis victory.