Hi friends!

Return to a match without having been mentally prepared, is not ideal for approaching this one, we risk undergoing, losing foot and not taking advantage of the match. Establishing a match plan can help you approach each match with confidence and concentration.
Note that a "match plan" is not necessarily linked to the way you will play, (it would rather be a game strategy): no, a match plan is rather a global organization in the way which you will manage your meeting (strategy included).

Here are some ideas:

1. Know your opponent

Before you start the match, it is good to collect as much information as possible on your opponent.

• Style of play: Is it aggressive or defensive?
• Right -hander / left -handed?
• Mentally solid? Pressure behavior: How does he react in critical moments?
• Strong and weak points: what are his favorite blows, and where does he tend to make mistakes?
• His journey ... etc

Knowing your opponent well can give clues about the way you have to approach it, to play it better.

2. Define clear objectives

Having clear goals other than the simple fact of winning the match gives you a direction and a focus.
These objectives must be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and temporal (Smart).

For example :

• Improve the percentage of first services
• Play at least four strokes per exchange
• Stay calm and positive even after a lost point

Concretely, like me for example I am in full apprenticeship I often go to match with a priority objective which is to spend several times a technical blow.

(Ex a cross -legged setback) ... and I will play the match while trying the blow that loses, the important thing is the goal that I set myself.

3. Stay confident, believe in yourself: Ositives

Visualization is a powerful technique to prepare your mind. Imagine you get key blows and earn important points.
Positive affirmations strengthen your confidence.

For example :

• I am calm and focused.
• I play my best tennis today.

4. Game strategy

Establish a clear strategy before the match.

This includes for example:

• Plan A: Your basic strategy to win.
• Plan B: necessary adaptations if your opponent against your initial plan.
• Plan C: more radical changes if necessary.

5. Management of stress and emotions

Staying calm under pressure is fundamental.

Here are some techniques:

• Deep breathing: Take deep inspirations to reduce stress.
• Routine between points: having a constant routine to refocus.
• Positive thought: replace negative thoughts with constructive thoughts.

6. Post-match assessment

After the match, take the time to assess your performance:

• What worked well: what aspects of the match plan have been effective?
• Which can be improved: what errors can you correct for the next match?
• Reflection on the mental state: how was your concentration and calm?

By following these steps, you increase your chances of success on the court. Tennis is as much a mental game as a physical game, and a well thought out match plan can make all the difference. Good luck !