10 Tips to Winning the Middle of the Match

As the match goes on analyze what has happened.  Ask these questions:

1. What patterns do they use with their ground strokes to set up points?
2. How do they handle pace and off-pace balls?
3. Are they predictable with where they hit under pressure?
4. Based on their grips, where are their power zones?
5. How many balls are they willing to hit before going for a winner?
6. To which side – forehand or backhand, do they move weakest?
7. Are they winning because they are better than you or are you giving away points too early in the point with unforced errors?
8. Are you using the 5 tactical priorities of match play: in play, direction, depth, spin and speed to effectively play your points or are you just hitting balls?
9. Is your opponent beginning to tire, are they injured or are they rushing to play the points?
10. Are you sticking to your game plan or have you adjusted to the flow of the match?

A good game plan will often have to be adjusted as the match is in progress.  The opponent may well change their tactics and force you to adjust yours as well. Pay attention and know why you are winning and why you are losing during the match to choose the correct strategy and tactics.

Ken DeHart

www.kendeharttennis.com
kendehart@aol.com

Photo Credits: nsaplayer

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This post involves:

backhand, forehand, game plan, game strategy, ground strokes, match play, power zones, strategy and tactics, unforced errors

... and focuses on:

Strategy, Tennis Tips, Tournament Prep, Tournaments and Championships

Posted by Ken DeHart on May 14, 2010 in Strategy, Tennis Tips, Tournament Prep, Tournaments and Championships. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.