Tennis is a complex, dynamic and unpredictable sport, both in terms of learning, development and match analysis. It is complex because, during a tennis match, numerous factors are intertwined: psychological (self-confidence, attention, motivation), tactical (decision-making, shot selection, tactical intention), technical (movement techniques, shot mechanics, adaptability and variety) and physical (reaction speed, movement, agility and coordination). It is dynamic because there is a constant cause-and-effect relationship between the two players; if one starts to play more aggressively, the opponent can immediately adapt. Finally, in terms of unpredictability, any attempt to prepare in advance for an individual tennis match or point is extremely challenging, if not impossible.
Does this mean that analysing a tennis match is not possible? Certainly not. However, it is necessary to approach the analysis in the right way. The first step in analysing a tennis match is to analyse your own game.
First, a tennis player, together with their coach (if they have one), must determine which playing style suits them. In modern tennis, the variety of playing styles has steadily decreased in recent decades, and the differences between players are becoming smaller. However, some differences in playing style remain. It is best to answer the questions below to determine your playing style more precisely.
Personality aspect:
– Do you like to take risks?
– How do you prepare for a tennis match?
– How do you behave when you are leading or loosing?
– How do you play important points?
– What do you do or think between points (what is your inner self-talk)?
– Do you pay attention to your breathing during changeovers?
– Do you have a best shot or playing pattern?
Tactical aspect:
– Do you prefer to lead or react to your opponent’s game?
– Do you play shorter rallies (up to 4 shots) or longer rallies (more than 5 shots)?
– Do you have a stronger stroke? If so, which one?
– How comfortable are you in the middle of the court and at the net?
– Do you play at a consistent pace or do you vary it?
– Do you have a winning serving pattern?
– Do you have a winning returning pattern?
Technical aspect:
– Which stroke or combination of strokes always works for you?
– Do you play with a lot, medium or little spin?
– Do you use a lot of underspin/slice?
– Is your first or second serve better?
– Do you use a lot of slice or topspin rotation when serving?
– Do you stand in front of or behind the baseline when returning?
Fitness aspect:
– How well are you physically prepared?
– Are you fast?
– Are you durable?
– Do you move better left-right or forward-backward?
These are just a few questions to help you and your coach determine your playing style. These starting points will also form the basis for further analysis of your matches. By considering the characteristics of your playing style, you will be able to assess your performance or level of play more accurately and improve in the future.
