Pre Match Checklist and Tennis Strategy during the match

Serena Williams emotions after winning her first match at the
Wimbledon 2011 

Each player has their own routine and strategies before and during the game. I would like to share with my routine and things I do before and during the game. First of all, you should have a game plan, what are their strengths and weaknesses. I have my pre-match routine, from the time you wake up to the time of the match, such things like: what you eat, what are you wearing, how many times you bounced the ball before you start your serve, how you folder your towel while you switching the sides and many more. You have to leave your expectations at home. Believe in yourself; don’t worry about the outcome of the match; warm up prior to going on the court for your match and exploit your opponent’s weaknesses. After the warm up you should have a good idea of their weaknesses.

You have to start hydrating your body and get plenty of sleep two days prior to competition; eat a carbohydrate meal at least two hours before playing. You don’t want to cramp during the match and be tired after the first set.  Players should visualize themselves playing great, if they see themselves doing it. They can do it.

“Champions keep playing until they get it right.” Billie Jean King.

Gael Monfils after his 5 hours marathon match

Players have to fight and enjoy the competition with great footwork during the points. No matter if you are winning or losing stay positive, play one point at a time.  Keep the mind on your court, not on the court next to you or who is watching in the stands. Good players can control the tempo of the match; they do not get too excited on winners and do not get upset on un-forced errors.

Remember, the most important point of the match is the one that you are playing now, stay in present and enjoy yourself being on the court.