Closing games
EmilPovlsen asked 6 years ago
Hi Dan and Tom.
Yesterday I was out playing a local league match, against this guy I’ve lost to once before.
In the 5th set I found myself being 10/4 up against him. I knew he could easily win the next 6 points, but I still struggled clearing my mind and focusing on the game. I first took the timeout at 10/9, which helped, but wasn’t enough and I lost the match.
I usually struggle closing games. Any advice in a situation like this?
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Dan Academy Coach answered 6 years ago
Hi Emil,
Firstly, great effort going 10-4 up in the fifth. Self talk is really important to belief and it sounds like you felt like you were going to lose even at 10-4 up. A time out at 10-7 or even earlier could have been more effective. Time outs aside, I think you need to practice on playing one point at a time irrelevant of the score. Closing out games can be tough but one of the most important things is to maintain your positivity and tactics you followed to get to that position in the match. Your doubts most likely made you play passive which allowed your opponent to make the comeback.
The next time your in this position and start to think negative thoughts, immediately turn them into positive thoughts such as, come on Emil I can do this, attack the ball first. Overtime you will create a more positive outlook on your own game and belief.
I hope this helps, keep us posted on your progress.
Dan
ekkkkoyes, suportive self-talk its definetly helpfull but for me its was not enough so, recently when i feel pressure i start to take big breaths to clear my mind and in this way i feel that my focus is getting better and i can play my best game
