Losing in competition

Kevin Lin Asked 12 years ago

Every time I play a tournament, I always lose to players that are slightly weaker or about the same as me even though most of the time I beat them in training. What is the problem and what should I do to fix this problem?

Alois Rosario Answered 12 years ago

Hi Kevin,

It may be a case of getting tight during competition.  It is important to work at playing good Table Tennis rather than focusing on the result.

You also need to try to find the signs that will allow you to recognise that this is happening.  the next step is to find ways to combat this.  Sometimes a simple deep breath can help you to relax and turn your attention back onto where it should be.

Take a look through our previous Ask the Coach questions on Mental Preparation.  You will find a lot of good information in them.