Playing up or down to the competition

Strategy

Jeff Van Goidsenoven Asked 3 years ago

Hi guys,

Now that league play is on hold until after the holidays, I've been reflecting on my performance. Overall, I'm quite happy with how it went so far but I noticed that I have a tendency to adapt my play to the competition, meaning I've competed with much better players (by my standards) but I've also struggled against weaker (although I've always managed to pull it out at the end so far).

So, my question is: How do I raise my floor-level play to achieve a greater consistency, so that I perform at a similar level, no matter the opponent?

Alois Rosario Answered 3 years ago

Hi Jeff,

As a Premium member I have seen a few of your videos.

I think the main thing for you is to continue to develop the first topspin stroke on both sides. I think when you can have complete confidence in making that stroke then the lower level players will be easier to deal with and you base level will increase.

You have already developed this skill a lot so you are on the right track.

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Thoughts on this question (2)

Jeff Van Goidsenoven Posted 3 years ago

Great point Alois,

I think you're spot on. I've noticed that against weaker opponents I tend to not trust my backhand topspin, especially if I miss 2 or 3, and then I overly rely on my forehand topspins, which makes me more predictable to play against. Versus stronger opponents I have less reservations to let it rip to keep them more on their toes. So, I need to work on opening up the game but probably also on my mindset.

Thanks for the answer!

Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 3 years ago

No problem Jeff. Keep up the diligent training.

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