Before every practice. Before every match.
The cues that win the close ones — pulled straight from Gabi's tennis guide.
- The Split Step
Right as your opponent makes contact, hop and land on both feet — wider than shoulder-width, knees bent. Both legs loaded, ready to explode either direction.
- Counterweight / Hands Lead
Racket hand reaches the ball BEFORE your foot plants. The arm pulls your torso — you fall INTO the ball rather than stepping at it.
- Fight for Two Inches
Stay on your toes, leaning forward. Forward pressure = easier contact, natural spin, and stolen time from your opponent.
- Wide Stance Always
Widen after serving. Weight forward through the entire point. A wide base is the foundation of everything.
- Decide Before the Ball Arrives
Pros commit to the next shot before contact. Pre-committed targets drop errors and build confidence.
- Diagnose After the Point
Stay present during the point. Save corrections for after. Never evaluate mid-play.
- One Point at a Time
Every point starts at zero. One bad point doesn't lose a match. One good shot doesn't win one. Stay present.
- Confidence Is Trained
Your attitude is visible to opponents. Energy matters more than score. Discipline beats motivation.
- Head Still — Pick a Spot
Keep your head completely still through contact. Focus on a specific part of the ball for cleaner contact.
- Lifting Balls: Legs First
Push off powerfully with your legs to lift the ball — don't arm it up. Leg drive creates the height and power.
- Serve: Head Up, Don't Peek
Keep your head up after the serve. Don't peek. If your serve feels off, do two shadow swings first.
- Serve + First Ball Is Everything
The serve and your first response ball set the tone. Treat them as a unit, not two separate things.
- Weight forward, widen stance
- Hands lead steps — counterweight arms
- Head still, pick a spot on the ball
- Diagnose after the point, not during
- Breathe deep when nervous
- Relax and have fun