How To Beat A Better Tennis Player

Playing against someone who appears to be better than you in tennis can be intimidating, but is not insurmountable. Tennis is not just about power and speed, but also about strategy, focus, and a dose of luck. You may not have the same physical ability or skills as your opponent, but you can still beat them by playing smart tennis. In this post, I'll share some suggestions on how to beat a better tennis opponent.

Focus On Your Strengths

When you're up against a better tennis player, it's crucial to focus on your own strengths and play to them. Don't try to match their skill level or play in the same style as them. Instead, focus on what you're good at and use it to your advantage. For example, if you have a powerful forehand, use it as much as possible and try to set up points with it. If you're comfortable playing at the net, try to move forward as much as possible and volley to finish points.

Keep The Ball In Play

One golden rule of tennis is to always keep the ball in play, regardless of how good your opponent is. If you can consistently hit the ball back over the net and put it in play, you'll force your opponent to make more shots and make some unforced errors. This can be frustrating for your opponent and can give you a mental advantage. So, focus on hitting the ball cleanly and comfortably, rather than trying to hit winners or take unnecessary risks.

Analyse Your Opponent's Style

Before the match, take some time to analyse your opponent's style of play. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What shots do they struggle with? By understanding your opponent's style, you'll be able to create a game plan that will give you the best chance to win. For example, if your opponent has a weak backhand, aim to hit more shots to their backhand. If your opponent is a baseline player, try to come to the net more often. Analysing your opponent's style will help you tailor your approach and play to your strengths.

Plan Your Shots

Don't fall into the trap of just hitting the ball and hoping for the best. Instead, plan out your shots carefully. Think about where you want to hit the ball and why. Are you trying to keep your opponent on the run? Are you aiming for a certain angle to make it harder for them to return? Make a mental note of your game plan and try to stick to it. Of course, you'll need to be flexible if your opponent throws you a curveball, but having a plan in place will help you stay focused.

Stay Mentally Strong

Playing against a better opponent can be mentally draining, especially if you're always on the defence and feel like you're being outplayed. However, mental toughness can also be a game-changer. Try to stay focused, confident, and positive throughout the game, even if you make unforced errors. Remember, tennis is not just a physical game, but also a mental game. If you can stay mentally strong, you may be able to get inside your opponent's head and throw him or her off.

Mix Up Your Shots

One way to throw off a better player is to mix up your shots. Don't always hit the ball to the same spot - mix in some drop shots, lobs, and slices to keep your opponent guessing. By changing up your shots, you'll force your opponent to adjust their game plan, which can lead to errors and open up opportunities for you to take control of the point. Be creative and don't be afraid to try something new - you may be surprised at how effective it can be.

Focus On Your Game, Not Your Opponent's Ranking

When you're playing against someone who has a higher ranking or more experience than you, it's easy to get intimidated and nervous. However, it's essential to focus on your game rather than your opponent's ranking. Avoid thinking too much about your opponent's abilities and instead focus on your own game plan. Set realistic goals for yourself, and try to achieve them one point at a time. By focusing on your game and staying confident, you'll be more likely to come out on top.

Embrace The Underdog Role

Sometimes, the best way to beat a better opponent is to embrace your underdog role and play without fear or pressure. If you're not expected to win, use that to your advantage and play with nothing to lose. Enjoy the game, have fun, and don't be afraid to experiment with different shots or tactics. Who knows, you may surprise yourself and everyone else with a comeback or upset victory.

It’s easy to feel intimidated when playing against a better opponent, but it is important to stay mentally strong and focus on your game plan. Analyze their style of play beforehand so you can tailor your approach accordingly. Utilize different shots like drop shots or slices to keep them guessing, and don't be afraid to embrace the underdog role - sometimes that's all it takes for an upset victory!