How can you use tactical anticipation?
In the seconds leading up to receiving your opponent’s shot, while gathering information about them, you can leverage your anticipation skills, both tactical and technical, as a powerful mental weapon to try to determine what their most likely shot will be. Then shift to perception to identify their actual shot. Using this combination effectively will give you extra time for preparation and execution of your shot.
Use tactical anticipation
Your tactical anticipation is based on your opponent’s position on the court, their previous playing patterns, and the last ball you played.
The opponent’s position on the court
The area of the court where your opponent is positioned is an important clue as to what they intend to do with their next shot. For example, if they are playing inside the baseline, it is very likely that they will attack from that position. If they are positioned far behind the baseline, it is difficult for them to attack, even if they want to.
What will the next shot be?
As you gain experience, you will start to get an idea of what to expect from your opponent based on your last shot. For example, if you mistakenly hit a short ball, you should immediately prepare to anticipate your opponent’s likely aggressive play. If you are on the offensive, your opponent’s next shot will almost certainly be weaker.
Remember previous playing patterns
Experienced tennis players use their opponents’ previous playing patterns (both in the current match and in others) to anticipate their next shots. For example, if an opponent has always played cross-court passing shots every time you’ve come to the net, make sure you’re able to cover them the next time you decide to go to the net.
