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Player to Player: Staying Focused Throughout a Match

Real Tennis Players - Like You! - Asking For, and Offering, Advice on the Sport They Love

Player to Player is USTA.com’s bi-weekly feature in which everyday tennis players are given a forum to ask advice on the sport they love – and their fellow players will dish out advice. We’ll post a number of the best responses we receive to our question of the week.

Please send any questions you’d like answered, or responses to other player’s questions, to Player@USTA.com.

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Last week’s question from Sarah H. of Yonkers, NY
(Please note: There's no need to send additional responses to this question)

I always start a match off great, particularly in important matches. However, after a few games, usually the first set, I lose my concentration and focus. As a result, my game drops like a boulder. Does anyone have recommendations on how I can maintain my concentration and a high level of play throughout the entire match?

PLAYER RESPONSES

Editor's note: From the number of responses we received to this question, it's clear that most tennis players struggle to maintain their concentration throughout a match. . .even the great Roger Federer. He was recently asked by the The Miami Herald how often is he on the court thinking about things outside of tennis. He replied: “Quite a bit. I’m always telling myself, ‘Can’t you wait and think about that another time?’ It is impossible to focus for an entire match. You are wandering around, sitting, looking into the crowd and seeing someone that reminds you of something. It isn’t a bad thing. You get tired of your mind always being in one place all the time. I try to block something out, but it always comes back.”

From J. M., FL
People tend to start matches at a pace which they feel comfortable to suit their own particular style of play. Even still, some players don’t even feel warmed up until halfway through the second set. You should be grateful in your ability to take advantage of a quick start, but you must also understand the consequences of sprinting out the gate. There are two disadvantages worth mentioning. First, your opponent will finally get into the match, and her ability will get better as the match progresses, whereas you might be exhausting all your tactics and weapons to jump out ahead. If you have already shown all you cards at the start, then all you have left is to defend against your opponent’s tactics and weapons for the rest of the match.

Secondly, I think you need to learn how to pace yourself and understand it’s not a sprint. You should take time with a tennis pro to create a game plan for all types of playing styles that you normally encounter. You should also develop more dimensions in your game so your opponent doesn’t get too comfortable hitting your groundstrokes. Developing and playing a game plan takes a lot of time, patience and discipline to perfect, so this will help you focus on your new goal and concentrate throughout your match.

From Terry C.
I have been a hacker for 30 years, and I figured out years ago you have to forget the last point and play the next one. I found that using visualization helped me maintain my concentration. Right before I serve, I create a visual picture in my mind of the toss, bending my knees and swinging through the ball. When receiving serve, I visualize getting my racquet back fast, bending my knees and following through. By doing this before every point, I stay focused and maintain my concentration. Thinking about your mechanics and fundamentals will make your game more consistent. Remember, the most important aspect is to get a good workout and have fun!

From Jim, Bensalem, PA
Maintaining focus and concentration is about staying focused on the goal of winning the match. A tennis match is like running a marathon. You can't put too much emphasis on any one point, win or lose, because it will take energy away from the ultimate goal of winning the match. Another thing I find helpful is to "restart" several times during the match. This involves mentally going back to the beginning of the match and recapturing the energy and excitement that you felt at that time. Finally, it’s about commitment to the sport itself. If you have a passion for the game, your commitment to excel and to re-invent yourself time and again will energize that focus. You’re playing a great sport that challenges us to bring out the best in ourselves. Win one for the troops!

From Grant
When this happens to me, I tend to go for bigger or different shots, instead of just sticking to what was winning the match. Just take it one point at a time and play like it’s a close match.

From Dora K.
I think you already won half of the battle by pinpointing your problem. Now go a little further and try to figure out where your thoughts are going after the first set. I usually tell myself that I have to stay as focused because the opponent is going to shift gears and try to get in the winning mode again and possibly be more aggressive (or more conservative in a case where he/she made too many unforced errors).

It could also be a nutritional thing. Your blood sugar might be dropping. There are many sport drinks available that could help. It could also be that you’re not in the best of shape to go for the long haul. Do some cross training.

From JR, Portland, OR
I usually get more dialed in as the match progresses. There are a lot of factors you might consider if you're losing focus. First, do you have enough nutrition beforehand (i.e. peanut butter, banana, energy bar) and are you drinking enough fluids before and on changeovers? Secondly, are you socializing on changeovers? I recommend waiting until after the match to chat because this is my biggest distraction, especially if my opponent is chatty because it takes my mind off the task at hand. Thirdly, I would suggest writing down a couple specific things you want to do. For example, start racquet swing low, keep ball toss just so, split step before every volley, etc. You can look at the paper while the other person is retrieving a ball, or on a changeover. My favorite mantra is "feet, focus, finish." I think the key to maintaining focus is to stay in the moment. Think about something very small (tennis related!). Watch your opponent's racquet and figure out his/her tendencies; focus on the "important" points; keeping the ball cross-court on the return; whatever works for you, but keep it small and do-able.

Another idea, if your game does start to "sink like a boulder" -- don't get negative on yourself, saying "there it goes again." It's most important after a bad shot or unforced error to shrug it off. It's behind you! There is nothing you can do except play the next ball, the next point. If it's a string of bad shots you're hitting, then just focus on getting it over the net and let your opponent mess up. That is the biggest deal at all levels of tennis. Make them hit one more ball, and maybe they’ll lose their focus.

From Traci S., Lindenhurst, NY
I don't like to get involved with between-games chit chat, especially if I’m having trouble with my focus. Instead, I concentrate on my game and my errors and how to correct them. I look for weaknesses in my opponent's game and try to go for those shots. I go back to basics by making sure that I’m hitting consistent, solid shots, not going for outright winners until I feel my focus is back. I also bring snacks and plenty to drink to keep my energy up.

From LaRue C., Alexandria, VA
Try treating each game as a single event. Don't think about what you've done in the past (i.e., your great early start) or what might happen in the future ("I'm going to fall like a boulder"). Instead, treat the "next game" as if you're just starting out in game one. Perhaps this will keep you fresh, focused and determined to start each game as hot as all of the others before it.

From Scot T.
My suggestion is to think of the court as an IPOD. When you put the earphones on, nothing matters outside of those little ear pieces. So when you walk onto the court, nothing matters outside of you and your opponent. Any thoughts that try to come up, push them outside the court for later.

From Don, San Diego, CA
Most of my junior players suffer from the same problem. My advice: Play lots and lots of points in practice (sets, baseline games, serving games, tie breakers, etc). Put something of insignificant value on the line, like a Gatorade to the winner, in order to simulate the pressure situation of a match. Remember, you have to approach mental conditioning in the same way as physical conditioning. As a temporary remedy, try taking your time between points in order to evaluate the flow of the match and your opponent's strategy, which may change as the match goes on.

From Justin T., Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Maybe you are sabotaging yourself. It might not be a focus issue, you may want to go deeper and ask yourself why you’re afraid to win, or why you won't play through and see if you can win. Ever read “The Alchemist: A Fable About Following Your Dream”? You may want to read it because it deals with a person’s big goals in life. It talks about the different reasons we sabotage ourselves and don't succeed because of it. Try writing out a list of what would be the benefit and the bad things about winning. On a lighter note, you might try to divert your attention from the outcome (i.e., "the win") and focus on performance. Work on particular shot selections and patterns and try listening to music when you practice to be more creative and relaxed. When you play your match, imagine the music and focus on the above.

From Vince C., St. Charles, MO
You should probably keep a couple of index cards in your bag with notes on it that may say: a) Breathe, b) Relax, c) Make opponent play my pace, d) Keep them on the defense. In addition, if you find yourself rushing points, regain your earlier composure and mix up the rally shots so your opponent can't get a read or rhythm on your game. Always remember that you are the better player.

From Susan, Stamford, CT
Sometimes it’s not you! It may be that your opponents are changing up their game in response to your great start. Some ideas: On the changeover, instead of thinking, “What am I doing wrong?” think, “What are they doing that’s different?” If you’re using the same strategy repeatedly with each point (such as serve and volley), mix it up. For example, if you’re returning serves consistently hitting cross-court to their forehand, try going to their backhand, down the line or launching a lob. Try staying back if you’ve been coming in, or serving and volleying aggressively if you’ve been staying back. Keep up or increase the chatter with your partner – what the other side is doing to change, and what you might try on your next point – keeping it positive! If you’re playing singles, have this same running conversation with yourself. Final tips: When my game falters during a match (which happens to everyone), I think “happy feet” to remind myself to keep moving, and I have a little chant that I use with myself, “Be one with the ball,” to remember to keep my eye on the ball.

From Marlene M.
What I do, and it seems to work, is that I do not look around at the other courts. I keep my eyes on my racquet, the floor and lines under my feet as I move around when the ball is not in play. I keep all thoughts on the game I'm playing now.

From Emory H., Atlanta, GA
I had the same problem with getting bored and not focusing, especially when the opposing players are not playing my type of game. My pro told me to concentrate on the little yellow ball and not on the opposing players. I make it a point to do that now. Also, I constantly tell myself to focus, sometimes even out loud. Here’s another thing that’s working for me, and perhaps it can help you. Whether you win or lose the first set, remember this is fun and not work. Begin to laugh and then make it a mental game. Talk to yourself, watch the ball, keep your eyes on the hitter and follow through on every swing. Then give yourself a handshake if you make a good shot.

From David G., Charlotte, NC
I try to identify a weakness or two in my opponent when I’m warming up in order to come up with one or two key things I want to do to win the match (for example, hit to his backhand or hit topspin balls high and deep). Then I focus on making that shot each and every time a point begins. This gets me focused on every point and does not allow my mind to wander and lose focus. At this point I am relying on all of the practice time I have put in to make the shot. It’s instinctual after I know what I want to do.

From David G., Lancaster, CA
Interestingly, Sarah H., this happens to me, as well (as I am sure it does for many others). I was in a final in November 2005 and was up in the first set 4-1 and 3-0 in the second. Low and behold, I managed to lose, 7-6, 6-4, 6-3. Do not get comfortable in matches. There is no cushion when playing any match, as your opponent has the opportunity at any time to take control. Relax and settle into each point without looking at the finish line, no matter what stage of the match you are in.

Take David Nalbandian for example. He plays every point from the first to last as if it’s a match point. He's a terrific fighter, even when he is winning the match. Also, after you have played a few games, we tend to play to our opponent's game instead of playing our own. Nalbandian always plays his own game, no matter who he is playing. Based on your opponent's game, there should be no adjustments in your own. Playing into their game almost forces you to lose focus and change your own strategy, therefore allowing them to win the match.

From Betty M.
I have found over many years that if I repeat and call the score to myself after every point, it keeps me more in the match. I sometimes force myself to call the score, in my mind, even if I am receiving, and will request the server to call the score if I didn't hear it.

From Penelope R.
Great advice was given to me from an outstanding coach about staying focused in a match. As you read the court and execute your shot, stay focused on the ball by repeating to yourself, "Dance with the ball.” You will be surprised how it will help you effectively concentrate on the ball one point at a time. I have problems with footwork, and this will help you concentrate and move with the ball.

From John B., Batesville, AR, tennis coach
I don't think you are unique. Here is something I have done that seems to help keep me focused. I refuse to think about the number of sets I need to win the match. Instead, I think about the number of games I must win to achieve my goal of winning the match. It is natural to let down or lose a little focus when you win a set, but what you really want is to win 12 or 18 games. Winning one set will not win a match for you.

From Michael R.
I always envision that I’m playing in front of a huge crowd, and it helps keep me focused.

From Dennis Huss, Mesa, AZ, coach for Tennis Canada & USTA certified chair and line umpire
A few ideas for you: 1) Focus on each point. Try to think about the point you are about to play, not the last one, and forget the score. It will take care of itself.
2) Self talk. That is, tell yourself things like, I’m doing well today, follow through on my forehand, get ready, hit deep to her backhand, and so forth. 3) On the changeovers, contemplate if you’re being aggressive enough or if you need to change your game plan. In other words, focus on the fact that you are on the tennis court at this moment and nothing else. 4) Finally, have fun and try some new ideas (i.e., forehand down the line, better angles).

From Ron R., Carrboro, NC
Glad to hear that you start your matches off well and that you're aware of losing concentration. That's a plus. You actually don't lose your concentration and focus. You are shifting the focus to something else that may be taking you away from your best game. See if you can notice where your concentration is going. Maybe there's a message there. You'll notice that some of the top pros will close their eyes while sitting at the changeover. This is the best time to think about or meditate on your struggles and successes. Ask yourself, "Is there anything I need to know about this concentration conflict?"

Maybe you're tiring, which can affect your level of play. Try relaxing and telling yourself, "I shifted my focus away. I can enjoy coming fully back to the game. In fact, this is part of the game. I have the ability to play my best anytime, and now is the time to start." You may notice that most players have a run of errors during a match. Roger Federer gets out of synch during some of his matches. He doesn't panic. He knows this is part of the game and that if he rides out the wave, he’ll return to the solid ground of his usually incredible game.

One more suggestion I have is the use of a handy technique to regain the focus you want. You can test this technique (or choose another) during practice sessions. Say to yourself (or out loud in practice), "Hit!" when you, your partner and opponents make contact with the ball. Say, "Bounce!" whenever the ball hits the court. You'll notice quickly where you focus is when you try this. With practice it may help you have the focus you truly want.

From Lorna E.
When your opponent sees you are bothered by your unforced errors, they will play on it. Breathe in and out before you serve and keep smiling to yourself.

From Jim, Shreveport, LA
Everyone has those lapses that you describe in big matches. I have improved over the years by practicing a lot on the areas that fail under pressure during a big match. When I practice, I use mental keys that I can call on during a hot match to refocus. For example, when you see the ball hit the net when you are serving, you weren’t watching the racquet hit the ball. The bottom line is to practice a lot on those things that let you down in a big match.

From Andy M, Falls Church, VA
Several years ago I started eating Power Bars during each match. I just take a bite or two on changeovers and often skip so as not fill up. I usually go through one bar in three sets. This helped me a lot, and I notice that my energy and focus drops when I don't do it.

From Hannah
Physical weariness can mask all the things you mention. You need to do some hard workouts consistently and regularly. You will never advance to greatness without going through the tough training.

From John H., Auburn, MI
Once you've accomplished something difficult, like winning a set in tennis, it is the body's subconscious inclination to reward itself with some time off. I have the same problem and end up playing a lot of three-set matches because of it. One strategy I would recommend after winning a set is to intentionally incorporate a new, aggressive strategy for the first game of the second set (that's when I’m most prone to having my serve broken). For instance, try serving up the T and attacking behind your serve or out wide and play the volley to the open court. Give yourself a goal that’s more ambitious than just playing a point out, and it will help you keep your focus sharp.

From Amy S., Austin, TX
I have that problem, too, and often get distracted. I know it may sound somewhat silly, but I have a song I'll listen to before I play -- a "fight song" of sorts. I keep it in my mind as I'm playing, and it keeps me going. Then later, if I realize I am not as focused, I will force myself to think of the song again. It's been working well for me this year. Just an idea from a novice.

Becki W., San Antonio, TX
I tell myself to watch the ball hit my strings. Hit to the deep part of the court or the person who is at the baseline crosscourt. Move my feet. Take a few deep breaths in and out slowly before serving or returning. Go back to the basics of tennis. Once all this comes into play, my game returns, as I have made myself focus on the ball and game.

From Daniel C., Corpus Christi, TX
Concentration and focus are matters of the mind. Years ago when I coached the men's tennis team of the University of Sioux Falls in South Dakota, I would tell the men to think of every point as match point, and play it as aggressively as you can, knowing that if you lost the point, the match is over.

From Dave, CO
My secret to staying focused is telling myself that I am down a break before each point. This helps me stay focused and treat every point as a key point. I've had a problem in the past of losing a lead, and this strategy helped me reverse the problem.

Laurel S., Hawaii
Start playing each point, point by point. Focus on the ball and the point only. Forget the score. Have fun!

From Sherry L.
What helps me stay focused is to think of a song that I like that has a catchy beat to it. I sing it in my head while I'm picking up the balls and right before I serve. It works for me every time.

*Please note that any advice given out in this forum should in no way be confused with actual medical advice. Before starting any new exercise regimen or altering your existing one, we strongly urge you to consult with your regular physician.

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