What You Don’t See on TV

Having coached at every single level from 8 and under local matches to all 4 Grand Slams, I have seen tennis players of all shapes and sizes doing all kinds of crazy things. None crazier than the self talking debates players have with themselves in the third person mid-match.

The world’s best champions got to the top by being able to focus through and win seven difficult matches against tough competition. Self-talk, positive or negative, takes away from your ability to focus. This is why you won’t see the top champions taking part in this behaviour.

Self-talk takes you out of the present. It distracts you. It can pump you up. But it will inevitably tear you down.

What should I do instead?

Think in pictures. Think in feel. Think in sounds. Picture what you want to happen. See the patterns you want to play. Then watch the ball like your life depends upon it.

What should I do if I find myself talking to myself again?

Monitor your thoughts always! Once you hear words, stay ‘STOP’, pat yourself on the thigh and get a positive picture in your head as quickly as possible.

In conclusion, if you want to win like the pros, play in the present but don't tell yourself how to do it!

by jason fransen