We worked very hard, played very well and we won the first set. We then went out and worked very hard for the first four games in the second set. We are up 3-1. suddenly the end of the match is in sight.

This usually is a dangerous time for most players.

What do we do what we find ourselves in a winning position in a match?

We tend to start to think about the outcome - winning the match. We start to think about how good it would be to beat this person. There are many examples, even at an elite level when players admit they started thinking of winning the match. If it is a major final, some players start thinking about the speech and who they should thank. Some players think about the trophy, maybe photos with the trophy.

These thoughts are the worst thoughts you can have at this time.

There are actually two things going on at this time.

* you are focusing on an outcome

* you start to defend your win

Let’s look at the both in more detail

Error 1 - Focusing on an outcome

Fact: You cannot act on an outcome. You can only act on the process to achieve that outcome.

What do I mean by this? If all you have in your mind is of the outcome you are no longer thinking about how to achieve that outcome. You may be only three games away from winning the match, all three points for that matter. However, you must concentrate playing those points and games to achieve the outcome.

Therefore, you must focus on process oriented goals, not outcome oriented goals.

Examples of process oriented goals are:

* Make this return

* Look for the short ball

* Win next point at the net

Error 2 - Defending the lead

Suddenly, the a win in your grasp. Many players at this point start to defend their lead. Players start to wait for the match to be given to them. They wait for their opponent to make unforced errors, they hope the opponent serves double faults. Often the player in the lead will play more conservatively, they will take the pace off the ball and play closer to the middle of the court to allow more room for error.

There are so many reasons why this is the wrong thing to do.

Firstly you should never change a winning game. Playing like this is not the strategy that got you in the lead therefore, it will not keep you in the lead.

Second. Your opponent has very little to lose and everything to gain. Therefore, they usually start playing more relaxed and going to their shots. It only takes them a few points, a game or two and their spirits could be lifted. They might think they have a chance of winning this match. (Refer to my article about momentum for a more in-depth discussion about this)

Thirdly. Playing negatively is a recipe for disaster. If you need to remember the words from that Midnight Oil song “it is better to die on your feet than live on your knees”. keep your chin up and play positively.

So, what do you do?

ATTACK THE WIN

Play positively and go after the match.

Do not wait for the match to be given to you.

Go and take what you deserve.

Think about think you can act on like

- on match point win the point at the net

- make every return for the rest of the match

- hit every volley crosscourt

Anything to keep your mind on the PROCESS of winning not the OUTCOME of winning.

Enjoy and let me know your thoughts !!

Play Tennis To Win !

Michael