In the Monte Carlo semifinals on Saturday we got to witness another step in the evolution of Novak Djokovic, the competitor.
A few years ago, Novak used to retire in matches if he did not feel well. Hey, no judgment. That is what normal people do.
One thing that is unique to playing tournaments is that you are playing each day and that helps you make adjustments day by day.
My match was scheduled for today at 9AM. I love playing early. Years of giving early morning tennis lessons trained me in being alert on the court right after getting up so, for me, the earlier the better
It has been a bumpy road getting to this point in my preparation for this tournament. Lots of old demons that I thought had been jettisoned popped up.
My first competition of the year is two weeks away and I have been in the toughest period of my tennis life.
Why now?
I have been competing as a senior tennis player for 30 years. I have been fortunate to have had an incredible run during these years. I had results beyond my dreams and, more importantly, I have become a different person as a result of being in the heat of competition
For two weeks, as a spectator and player, I was wowed by the special moments of play that were demonstrated by Dimitrov, Wawrinka, Ivanovic, Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Cibulkova, Li Na and so many others. The shots they can hit, the level of consistency of their play, and the coverage around the court so complete that it is hard to relate for the rest of us who play.
While at Tennis Congress USA a couple of weeks ago I was giving a presentation “Storytelling: A World Champion’s Secret to Playing the Best Game of Your Life” and was pleased to see Jeff Greenwald in attendance. He is a former #1 in the World 35 and 45 and over player and a top San Francisco based sports psychologist.
“Belief is the scepter of all champions. It’s the way they command respect from their competitors. It’s how they coordinate their amazing talents. In the end, it’s the difference between the legends and the other supremely talented stars.
Just back from The US Tennis Congress, a remarkable weekend in Atlanta, attended by over 200 recreational players all wanting to grow their games. Eager for information these players were welcomed by 60 of the most passionate informed tennis coaches in the World.
