When Should I Use a “Tweener” Like Alcaraz?

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The Tweener

The “tweener”, made famous by players like Carlos Alcaraz, is more than just a crowd-pleaser—it can be an effective shot when used strategically. But when should you attempt this flashy move, and when should you play it safe? Let’s break down the right moments to use the tweener and how to incorporate it into your game.

Credit: Peter Staples

📌 When to Use a Tweener

The tweener is best utilized in specific game situations where a conventional shot may not be possible.

🔥 1. When You Are Chasing a Deep Lob

✅ Out of Position? No Problem! If you’re sprinting back and don’t have time to turn around, a tweener allows you to stay in the rally.
✅ Avoid an Awkward Backhand Slice—It keeps you balanced while getting the ball back into play.

🔥 2. When a Normal Lob Retrieval Isn’t Possible

💡 If the ball is too deep for a turn-and-hit, a tweener can be a controlled and last-ditch defensive option.
💡 It prevents unnecessary stretching and keeps your footwork under control.

🔥 3. As a Surprise Attack

🎯 Some players, like Carlos Alcaraz, add spin or depth, making the tweener an offensive weapon rather than just a defensive trick.
🎯 Catch opponents off guard, especially if they assume the point is already won.

🔥 4. When You Have Mastered the Shot

✔ If you’ve practiced and can execute it consistently, a tweener can become a functional shot rather than a gimmick.
✔ Use it in high-pressure moments only if you are confident in the execution.

🚫 When NOT to Use a Tweener

While entertaining, the tweener is not always the best option. Here’s when you should avoid it:

❌ When You Have Time for a More Effective Shot
➡ If you can turn and hit a normal shot, take the safer option.

❌ In High-Stakes Moments Without Practice
➡ Risky shot = lost points. If you haven’t practiced enough, don’t gamble with it in crucial moments.

❌ If the Ball is Too Close to Your Feet
➡ Tweener execution requires the right ball height—too low or too high leads to mis-hits.

📈 How to Train the Tweener Effectively

💪 Drill #1: Chase & Drop Drill
🎯 Have a partner throw lobs deep and practice running back into position for a tweener.

💪 Drill #2: Controlled Tweener with Targeting
🎯 Don’t just hit between your legs—aim for specific areas of the opponent’s court.

💪 Drill #3: Timed Reaction Tweener
🎯 Incorporate the tweener into live match play situations so it feels natural rather than forced.

🎾 Wrap

The tweener is an exciting and sometimes game-saving shot when executed correctly. Carlos Alcaraz has redefined its use as both a defensive maneuver and an offensive surprise. However, it should not be overused or relied upon when better options exist.

✅ Practice it regularly to ensure control.
✅ Use it only in the right moments.
✅ Turn it into a real weapon, not just a trick shot!

Getting from Good to Great: Lessons from Rory McIlroy

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Your greatest opponent is the doubt in your own mind.

Rory McIlroy’s recent success at Pebble Beach offers a powerful lesson for tennis players striving to elevate their game. He candidly admitted:

“I think for me it’s always the mental side of it. That probably is the biggest barrier between me being good and being great.”

At the highest level, everyone has skills, fitness, and strategy—but what separates good players from champions is their ability to:

✔ Handle pressure
✔ Adapt to different conditions
✔ Trust their game when it matters most

💡 In this post, we’ll break down McIlroy’s journey and draw key parallels to tennis, helping you unlock the next level of your game.

1️⃣ Mental Resilience: Breaking the Barrier to Greatness

McIlroy has always had the physical skills to win, but mental roadblocks held him back under pressure. Tennis players experience the same thing—when a match gets tight, nerves take over, leading to errors at critical moments.

🎾 The Tennis Connection

  • Choking under pressure is a top reason talented players lose big matches.
  • Pre-match preparation & breathing exercises help maintain focus.
  • The “tennis ball squeeze” technique has been scientifically proven to reduce stress.

✅ Pro Tip: Develop a mental routine before big points. Whether it’s deep breathing, visualization, or repeating a confidence-boosting phrase, find what works for you.

2️⃣ Adaptability: Mastering All Surfaces & Opponents

McIlroy’s breakthrough came when he adapted his game to different course conditions:

“I can win on different venues, different tests, firm courses, soft courses, windy, calm, rain, long golf courses, short golf courses.”

🎾 The Tennis Connection

Champions in tennis do the same—they adjust their style for different court surfaces:

✔ Hard courts: Focus on aggressive baseline play and explosive movement.
✔ Clay courts: Work on patience, endurance, and heavy topspin.
✔ Grass courts: Master low slices and quick net play.

✅ Pro Tip: Train in different environments and against a variety of playing styles to become a well-rounded competitor.

3️⃣ Footwork: The Tennis “Short Game”

McIlroy’s struggles weren’t about hitting the ball—but fine-tuning his short game and decision-making. The same applies to tennis:

⚡ If your footwork is even slightly off, your shot quality suffers.

🎾 The Tennis Connection

  • The cross-step is like a golfer’s setup before a swing—it prepares for explosive movement.
  • First-step acceleration is crucial—being half a step slow can turn a winning shot into a defensive rally.
  • Multi-directional footwork drills ensure movement efficiency on all surfaces.

✅ Pro Tip: Work on cross-step timing before every point and incorporate eye-foot drills into training.

4️⃣ Building Championship Habits

McIlroy’s consistency didn’t happen overnight—it was built through small, disciplined habits over time. This mirrors James Clear’s Atomic Habits philosophy:

✔ Success isn’t about huge leaps—it’s about tiny improvements repeated daily.

🎾 The Tennis Connection

To become a championship-level player, implement winning habits in your training:

📝 Create a pre-match routine that locks in focus and confidence.
🔥 Train under pressure—simulate tiebreakers and tough serving situations.
📊 Analyze losses & track progress instead of just playing matches.

✅ Pro Tip: Make small, consistent improvements instead of waiting for a breakthrough. Use a training journal to track progress.

🏆 Mindset: The Difference-Maker

McIlroy’s transformation wasn’t about swinging harder—it was about developing the mindset of a champion.

🎯 Mental toughness matters more than physical skill at the highest level.
🔄 The ability to adapt separates great players from talented competitors.
👟 Footwork and preparation are the foundation of success.
💡 Championship habits—practiced daily—define long-term success.

🎾 Next time you step on the court, remember this:

Your greatest opponent isn’t the player across the net—it’s the doubt in your own mind.

💡 Train your mind as much as your strokes, and you’ll see the results on the scoreboard.

Improve Your Balance with the Cross-Over Step

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Improve Your Balance with the Cross-Over Step

Balance is one of the most critical aspects of high-level tennis movement. A well-executed cross-over step helps players cover the court efficiently while maintaining stability, ensuring better shot execution and quicker recovery.

🔍 What is the Cross-Over Step?

The cross-over step is a dynamic footwork technique where one leg crosses over the other to initiate rapid movement in a specific direction. It is particularly useful when:

✅ Recovering from a wide shot – Get back into position faster.
✅ Reacting to sharp angles – Cover the court efficiently.
✅ Generating explosive lateral movement – Move powerfully while staying controlled.

Unlike shuffle steps, which are used for small positional adjustments, the cross-over step provides a burst of speed while keeping your center of gravity stable.

⚖️ How the Cross-Over Step Enhances Balance

The cross-over step helps maintain stability and control through:

🟢 Better Body Alignment: Keeps your weight centered to prevent stumbling.
🟢 Efficient Movement: Reduces unnecessary steps, making transitions smoother.
🟢 Faster Recovery: Helps return to a neutral court position without over committing.

A well-balanced cross-over step prevents you from losing your footing when under pressure, making it an essential skill for both defensive and offensive play​.

🎯 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform the Cross-Over Step

Follow these 5 simple steps to master the cross-over step:

1️⃣ Start in an Athletic Position

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Keep knees slightly bent, weight on the balls of your feet.

2️⃣ React with a Split Step

  • Time your split step to be ready to explode in any direction.

3️⃣ Push Off with the Outside Leg

  • If moving right, push off with your left leg (and vice versa).
  • Your first step should cross over in front of the other leg.

4️⃣ Maintain Upper Body Stability

  • Keep your core engaged.
  • Avoid unnecessary upper-body movement to stay balanced.

5️⃣ Recover with Prep Steps

  • After reaching the ball, use small adjustment steps to stabilize your shot.
  • If returning to the center, use another cross-over step for quick recovery.

📌 When to Use the Cross-Over Step in Match Play

  • 🏃‍♂️ Defending Wide Shots: Allows quick lateral recovery without losing balance.
  • ⚔️ Attacking with Aggressive Positioning: Helps move forward efficiently for offensive plays.
  • 🎯 Baseline Recovery: Aids in transitioning back to the center after a deep groundstroke.

🏅 Wrap

The cross-over step is an essential movement pattern that enhances balance, control, and efficiency on the court.

By integrating this advanced footwork technique into your training drills and applying it in match play, you’ll become a faster, more stable, and dominant player.

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Whisperer Notes from the AO

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Lessons From the Australian Open

The Australian Open isn’t just a tennis tournament—it’s a journey into the heart of the sport, where players and fans alike come together to celebrate the game.

At its core, the AO is more than a competition. It’s a stage where stories unfold, legends are made, and lessons abound for players and fans alike.

Look for the Game Within the Game

It’s like going to a play with Pam. While I might focus on the main story line, she notices the rich tapestry of subplots and intricate interplays that exist beyond the surface. Tennis, much like theater, offers layers of depth if you know where to look.

Every match at the Australian Open has its own plot, but the real magic lies in the subtleties—the body language, the mental battles, the hidden strategies. The court is not just a battlefield; it’s a canvas for skill, resilience, and strategy.

Explore Lessons From the Court

The court is a classroom, and every match is a lesson. To capture the spirit of the Australian Open, we’ve created a dedicated page: Lessons From the AO.

On this page, you’ll find:

  • Insights from unforgettable matches.
  • Stories that showcase resilience, determination, and passion.
  • Takeaways for tennis enthusiasts, sports lovers, and any player striving for excellence.

👉 Visit the Lessons From the AO Page

Join us as we reflect on the inspiring moments that make the Australian Open one of the most celebrated events in sports.

Recovering from Injury? Train Your Tendons, Joints, and Ligaments

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Why Connective Tissue Matters in Recovery

When recovering from an injury, most people focus on muscles and bones, but tendons, ligaments, and joints play a crucial role in movement and stability. Strengthening these connective tissues properly can prevent future injuries and improve overall performance. However, each tissue type requires different training strategies.

Tendons: “Springs” That Transmit Force

Function: Tendons connect muscles to bones, acting like springs to absorb and transmit force. Over time, they lose elasticity, making them prone to degeneration, tears, and ruptures.
✅ How to Strengthen Tendons:
  • Avoid complete rest—even sore tendons benefit from controlled movement.
  • Slow, weighted exercises are key (bodyweight alone is not enough).
  • Example: Prevent Achilles tendon injuries with slow calf raises (3 seconds up, 3 seconds down), 25 reps twice per week.
  • For biceps tendon (elbow pain)—do slow biceps curls with progressive weight increases.

Ligaments: “Stabilizers” That Prevent Sprains

Function: Ligaments connect bones to bones, ensuring joint stability and proprioception (body awareness in space). Unlike tendons, they do not degrade from overuse but can tear suddenly.
✅ How to Strengthen Ligaments:
  • Focus on stability exercises—ligaments respond to low load, high repetitions.
  • Example Exercises:
    • Wrist Sprain Recovery: Bounce a tennis ball on a racket while keeping the wrist stable.
    • Ankle Stability: Stand barefoot on one foot for 30 seconds, pressing your big toe into the ground. Challenge yourself by adding a resistance band or closing your eyes.

Joints: Movement is Medicine

Function: Joints allow bones to move, but with age or injury, their fluid decreases, cartilage thins, and stiffnessincreases. Contrary to old beliefs, moderate movement actually protects joints from damage.
✅ How to Strengthen Joints:
  • Incorporate multi-directional movements for better lubrication and flexibility.
  • Example Exercises:
    • Wrist & Hand Health: Use playdough—roll it into different shapes, stretch it into loops, and pull it apart. Do this for 2 minutes per hand.
    • Hip Mobility: Perform standing torso rotations to engage the hips dynamically.
    • Shoulder Health: Strengthen rotator cuffs by practicing external rotation exercises.

Source: New York Times

Lessons Learned from Sinner’s Dominance in AO Final

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Sinner Dominated Zverev in Australian Open Final

Jannik Sinner delivered a clinical performance to defeat Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6(4), 6-3 in the Australian Open final on Sunday.
The match revealed several critical factors that contributed to Sinner’s dominance. Here are the key lessons learned:

Sinner’s Superior Movement

  • Sinner’s exceptional footwork and ability to cover the court were decisive. His preparation through balanced footwork drills, such as the crossover step and rapid transitions, allowed him to get behind the ball, maintain balance under pressure, and control rallies. In contrast, Zverev often found himself off-balance on his forehand, leading to multiple errors.
  • His movement under pressure played a significant role in winning extended rallies, particularly during critical moments like the 21-shot exchange in the second set.

Variety and Mental Toughness in Pressure Situations

  • Sinner displayed a willingness to integrate drop shots and passing shots during tight situations, maintaining composure and belief in his game plan.
  • His ability to trust his variety, even under scoreboard pressure, highlights the psychological resilience that separates top-tier players from the rest.

Effective Use of the Serve

  • While Zverev is known for his powerful serve, Sinner’s serving proved quietly impactful. His pinpoint serve placement and improved mechanics through a pinpoint stance created challenges for Zverev to establish rhythm on service returns.
  • This allowed Sinner to win a remarkable percentage of first-serve points, further pressuring Zverev, who was unable to generate break-point opportunities.

Handling Adversity and Luck

  • Sinner capitalized on critical moments, such as the net cord favoring him in the second-set tiebreak. Although luck played a role, Sinner’s ability to consolidate such moments with strong serving and composure demonstrated his readiness to seize opportunities.

Key Takeaways for Competitive Play

  1. Footwork Mastery: Focus on drills that improve balance, movement efficiency, and quick recovery during intense rallies.
  2. Serve Optimization: Prioritize serve mechanics for precision and consistency rather than relying solely on power, as shown by Sinner’s effectiveness.
  3. Variety and Execution: Develop a versatile game to exploit opponents’ weaknesses, as Sinner did with his strategic use of drop shots and passing shots.
  4. Mental Resilience: Build habits to maintain composure during high-pressure moments, exemplified by Sinner’s ability to stick to his game plan under pressure.
Sinner’s victory serves as a blueprint for combining physical preparation, tactical adaptability, and mental fortitude to excel at the highest level.
As they say, the best player won on the night.

Source: Associated Press

How Long Does It Really Take to Regain Fitness After a Break?

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How Long Does It Take to Get Fit Again?

Taking a break from exercise happens to everyone. Whether it’s due to travel, injury, or life events, it’s important to know how fitness is impacted and, more importantly, how to bounce back effectively. Here’s what you need to know about fitness loss and recovery.

What Happens When You Stop Exercising?

Fitness follows the “use it or lose it” principle. Taking weeks off from physical activity leads to:
  • Cardiovascular Decline:
    Within days, blood plasma volume decreases, affecting oxygen delivery. After 12 days, VO2 max—the body’s capacity to use oxygen—begins to drop.
    Effect: You might notice heavier breathing and a faster heart rate when resuming workouts.
  • Muscle Strength Decline:
    Strength loss is slower than cardiovascular endurance, with noticeable changes after eight weeks. Weightlifting capacity and the number of repetitions decrease, and muscle soreness becomes more prominent.

How Fast Do You Lose Fitness?

  • Age Matters: Older adults lose fitness at nearly twice the rate of younger individuals.
  • Fitness Levels Before the Break: Athletes with higher fitness levels have more to lose in absolute terms.
  • Genetics and Lifestyle: Factors like diet, stress, and overall health play a role.

Can You Prevent Fitness Loss?

Yes! Even short, consistent efforts can help:
  1. Interval Training: A few minutes of high-intensity workouts can maintain blood volume and muscle activity.
  2. Stay Active: Use body-weight exercises, climb stairs, or do short “exercise snacks” throughout the day.

How Long Does It Take to Recover Fitness?

Here’s the good news: Fitness recovery is faster than starting from scratch, thanks to muscle memory.
  • 10–14 Days: Moderate workouts can restore about half your lost fitness.
  • Full Recovery: Athletes may require two to three times the length of their break to fully regain peak performance.

Strategies for a Comeback

  1. Ease Into It: Focus on duration, not intensity, during your first workouts. For example, aim for 30 minutes of walking or jogging.
  2. Gradual Progression: Increase intensity or load by no more than 10% per week.
  3. Variety Helps: Cross-training with swimming or dancing engages muscles in different ways and keeps you motivated.
  4. Listen to Your Body: Adjust your plan based on how you feel.

Leverage Muscle Memory

Even after extended breaks, your muscles retain a molecular “memory” that accelerates recovery. With consistent effort, you’ll regain your strength and endurance faster than expected.

Conclusion

Breaks happen, but they don’t have to derail your fitness journey. By staying moderately active during downtime and easing back into a routine, you can return stronger and more motivated than ever. Remember: Consistency and patience are your best allies in any fitness comeback.
Source: New York Times Wellness

Perseverance Personified: Maddy Keys’ Inspiring Journey

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If at First You Don’t Succeed, Try 16 Years

Madison Keys captured her first Grand Slam title in spectacular fashion, defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6, 7-5 in a thrilling Australian Open final on Saturday at Melbourne Park.

In a high-stakes showdown between the No. 19 and No. 2 seeds, Keys emerged victorious after a match filled with rapid shifts in momentum. She dominated with exceptional serving in the first set, adjusted to an off-speed battle in the second, and demonstrated extraordinary composure in a dramatic final set where both players raised their level under intense pressure.

Success Delayed but Not Denied

Madison Keys’ story proves that greatness doesn’t always come easily—even for prodigies. At just 14, she was hailed as the future of tennis, celebrated for her raw power and potential. But it would take 16 years, countless setbacks, and a transformative shift in mindset to achieve her dream of winning a Grand Slam.

Her victory at the 2025 Australian Open stands as a testament to resilience, patience, and the power of self-belief.

Madison Keys’ Journey: A 16-Year Success

Early Days of Promise

Madison Keys burst onto the tennis scene as a teenage sensation, training under the guidance of Chris Evert. Her effortless power and fearless style of play quickly set her apart, with her first WTA victory coming at just 14.

“From 10 years old, she had more power than anyone her age. On a good day, she could beat anyone.” – Chris Evert

However, with early success came immense expectations. When she struggled to meet these lofty goals, doubts and setbacks began to creep in, creating a rollercoaster of highs and lows throughout her career.

Major Turning Points in Her Career

1. The Buzz of Early Success (2008-2017):

  • As a teenager, Keys reached the Australian Open semifinals and later made the 2017 U.S. Open final. However, a nerve-wracked performance against Sloane Stephens saw her fall short.
  • Mounting expectations created mental roadblocks and inconsistent performances.

2. Setbacks and Injury Struggles (2018-2022):

  • Keys faced a series of injuries, including a devastating hamstring tear at Wimbledon 2022, that derailed her progress.
  • Therapy and self-reflection helped her confront the fear of being labeled a failure, allowing her to redefine her goals and focus.

3. Redefining Success (2023-2025):

  • Together with her coach and husband, Bjorn Fratangelo, Keys embraced a new mindset—playing courageously and without regrets, rather than striving for perfection.
  • This shift led to her breakthrough, defeating three top-10 players (including World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka) to claim the 2025 Australian Open title.

Lessons Learned Along the Way

1. Perseverance Pays Off

Madison Keys’ story demonstrates that persistence and patience are critical to success. It may take longer than expected, but the rewards are worth it.

2. Harnessing Strengths

Rather than holding back her natural power, Keys learned to amplify it, making her unique style of play her greatest asset.

3. Mental Growth

Therapy and a supportive environment helped her overcome the mental toll of high expectations, allowing her to play with confidence and freedom.

4. A Winning Mindset

Keys adopted a new mantra: success isn’t just about winning—it’s about playing with courage, conviction, and leaving the court with no regrets.

“If you consistently do the right things, success will follow—though it may take time!”

Madison Keys’ remarkable journey to her first Grand Slam title is a story of resilience, determination, and personal growth. Her 16-year quest reminds us all that great things are possible when you refuse to give up.

Deniz and Isaac’s Tennis Pilgrimage

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Sabalenka 3.0

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Sabalenka: Toughest Challenge in Women’s Tennis Right Now

Aryna Sabalenka’s strengths and the multi-year journey she undertook to develop them highlight why she is regarded as the toughest competitor in women’s tennis today. Let’s delve into her key strengths and the path she followed to refine them.

Strengths

1. Power and Precision

  • Explosive Ball Striking: Her shots are often described as “rockets,” capable of hitting winners from virtually any position.
  • Improved Serve: A revamped serve eliminates frequent double faults, showcasing a blend of power and control.

2. Complete Game

  • Versatile Playstyle: Combines flat shots, topspins, drop shots, slices, and volleys to keep opponents guessing.
  • Enhanced Defense: Improved movement and defensive skills allow her to absorb and counter opponents’ power effectively.

3. Mental Resilience

  • Never-Say-Die Spirit: Thrives under pressure, maintaining a relentless mindset in high-stakes moments.
  • Composure Under Stress: Even when emotionally strained, she consistently pulls herself back into matches.

4. Adaptability

  • Plan B Strategy: By introducing variety into her game, Sabalenka remains solid even when her primary “boom” approach falters.

5. Strategic Improvement

  • Fearless in Big Moments: A Federer-like ability to stay aggressive and fearless during crucial points.
  • Psychological Tools: Uses self-talk, focus drills, and mental routines to optimize performance under pressure.

The Journey Thus Far

1. Mental Evolution

  • Emotional Control: Worked extensively on managing emotions, transforming from erratic to composed in high-pressure situations.
  • Mental Training: Techniques like visualization, routines, and mindfulness have helped her maintain focus.

2. Technical and Tactical Refinements

  • Serve Overhaul: Collaborated with biomechanics expert Gavin MacMillan to rebuild her serve into a reliable weapon.
  • Enhanced Shot Selection: Added slices, drop shots, and volleys, diversifying her arsenal.

3. Physical Conditioning

  • Improved Footwork: Rigorous agility training has boosted her court coverage.
  • Focus on Balance: Dedicated sessions to enhance core strength and movement efficiency.

4. Confidence Building

  • Consistency in Success: A 20-match winning streak is a testament to her dominance.
  • Growth-Oriented Mindset: Sets clear goals and builds habits that align with her ambitions.

Aryna Sabalenka’s journey is a masterclass in determination, discipline, and adaptability. Her transformation from a raw talent into a polished, complete player solidifies her position as one of the most formidable athletes in tennis today.

It’s Okay to Miss When You’re Doing the Right Thing

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It’s Okay to Miss When You Commit to the Right Shot

A Stellar Start, but Missed Opportunities

During his Australian Open semifinal, Ben Shelton played an electrifying first set, using tactical variety to unsettle Jannik Sinner and push him out of his comfort zone. The tension in Sinner’s camp was evident—they were bracing for a battle. Shelton even found himself in a commanding position during the tiebreak, only to let two crucial opportunities slip away when he hesitated on short balls where he could have pulled the trigger.

In these moments, commentator Jim Courier offered a golden piece of advice:

“It’s okay to miss when you’re doing the right thing.”

Why This Advice Matters

Courier’s words resonate deeply with players at every level of tennis. They emphasize that mistakes aren’t inherently bad—what matters is the intent behind your shot. The best players in the world know that success doesn’t come from avoiding errors but from committing to the right decisions, even when they don’t lead to immediate success.

Lessons for Tennis and Beyond

Courier’s insight applies not just to tennis but to life as well. Here’s how:

  • Commit to the Process: Growth happens when you trust your instincts and make bold decisions, even if the result isn’t perfect.
  • Focus on Intent, Not Outcomes: The process of making the right choices consistently leads to long-term success.
  • Learn from Mistakes: Errors made with the right intent can be invaluable learning opportunities, helping you refine your instincts for the future.

These moments of commitment, where you take calculated risks despite the pressure, are what separate the good from the great—not just in tennis but in any endeavor.