Slow start in matches

Muhammad Noman Asked 8 years ago

Hello,

I have identified a recent problem that in almost start of every match, I tend to lose first couple of sets. But then once my momentum builds up, I make a come back and win remaining sets to win the game. Sometimes from match point down.

But the problem is against high level players, this does not work and I easily lose the match in straight sets.

This has cost me a lot particularly the score line is either 3-0 loss against high level players or a 3-2 win against good players.

Any advise on how can I improve on that aspect.

Thanks

Noman

Alois Rosario Answered 8 years ago

Hi Noman,

Try to prepare for the match and make sure you are ready to play the first point as well as you can.

Some things that will help this are:

Do a good off table warm up so that you are sweating before you start.
Do a good hitting warm up. Go through some drills and also play some practice games before going out for your match.
Take a minute or two to think about the tactics that you are going to use during the match.

Takes these steps and see if this improves your ability to start a match better.

← Starting at 16 Returning short and fast long serves →

Recommended Video

Effects of Rubbers

Learn the effects of using normal rubber, short pimples, long pimples and anti spin. This is an introduction that shows how much spin each type of rubber can generate and how a spinning ball reacts when hit with each type of rubber.

Watch Now

Muhammad Noman Posted 8 years ago

Thank you so much.

The same thing happened yesterday. I lost the first two sets.

Will let you know the progress.

Regards

Jean Balthazar Posted 8 years ago

Don't let it become a psychological barrier. If you convince yourself that you'll always loose the two first sets, chances are that you will. Try to break that "habit" and focus on winning the first or second set, regardless of what happens next.