Without a doubt, consistency is the foundation of tennis because it allows the other aspects of the game to be applied. Generally, it is defined as using optimum pace and control to get the ball back more times during a point than an opponent while hitting shots to a specific target or area without error. This also means a player has to be in good condition to remain consistent throughout longer points.
One of the reasons why consistency is such a critical tactic to have is because very rarely will a player win a match by solely hitting winners. Matches are generally won by the player who makes the fewest errors, so the winner is usually the more consistent player. The more shots a player is able to get back, the more chances his opponent has to miss and lose the point. While he may get a winner once in a while, the more aggressive risk taker will likely commit more unforced errors and consistency will prevail.
Consistency comes down to three elements. A player must be technically sound. To be consistent and hit with depth on a groundstroke, a player must be able to repeatedly hit shots so they clear the net by at least three feet. With a lot of topspin, players can hit a powerful shot and aim for six feet above the net so the ball’s flight path is more of an arc groundstroke. A player must also maintain a great deal of mental concentration and focus. The more focused a player is during a point, the more consistent he will be in executing the right shot repeatedly. Finally, the player must select the correct shot to hit. Even though you may have the correct technique and focus, selecting the wrong shot to hit can get a player in trouble to where he loses the point anyway. |
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