The Difference Between the Top 5 Tennis Pros and the Next 20: How You Can Use It to Improve Your Pickleball Game Immediately

Elite habits you can apply to your next match

Have you ever wondered what sets the top-tier athletes apart from the rest? Is it their diet, training routines, or age when they started playing? Surprisingly, the answer isn't any of those factors. A fascinating study conducted at a Florida tennis academy revealed a crucial difference in mindset that may surprise you…and you can use to improve your pickleball game right now.

During the 10 to 15 seconds after each point, the top 5 players have a distinct internal dialogue: “I love this game,” “There’s nowhere else I’d rather be,” and “I’ll get the next one.” In stark contrast, players ranked around 20 to 25 often entertain a very different thought pattern. Their minds might wander to doubt and frustration, leading to negative self-talk that can hinder performance.

These positive affirmations aren’t just fluff; they have a tangible impact on performance. By cultivating a mindset filled with encouragement and optimism, top players slow their heart rates, maintain controlled breathing, and conserve energy throughout matches. This mental aspect is often the deciding factor in high-stakes competitions.

I’ve witnessed this firsthand recently. Often when playing, after every setback or rejection, the voice in my head during those critical moments has been on the negative side… like “I stink!” Lately though, if I tell myself, “This is exactly where I need to be” or “I’m learning something crucial right now,” it empowers me to push through and nail the next shot. Conversely, if I start thinking, “I’m not cut out for this” or “Maybe I should quit while I’m behind,” I’m setting myself up for failure. This change has helped me win some very close rec games recently, that in the past, I probably would have lost.

Your internal dialogue after a setback is significant. It can be the difference between burning out and breaking through in your game. In these moments of reflection, you have the opportunity to reshape your experience and your performance.

So, how can you apply this to your own game? After each point, take a moment to consciously choose your thoughts. Rather than dwelling on mistakes or negative outcomes, focus on what you enjoy about the game and the lessons learned along the way. Remind yourself that improvement comes with time and practice.

Next time you find yourself in a challenging moment during a match, remember: the difference between the top players and the rest is often just a matter of mindset. Embrace it, and watch your game take off!