Double-faults and the self-Doubt Demon
by: Dave Winship @ On The Line

Happens to all of us. Usually on big points. You miss your first serve, prepare for your second serve and . . . yep, there he is - the self-Doubt Demon. He pops up in front of you, grinning mischievously as he taunts and teases you: "You're going to double-fault! You're going to double-fault!"

If you let this go unchallenged, the demon will win - you'll double-fault for sure! So you have to challenge it.

You can't slay this particular demon. None of us can. But you can keep him under control - grab hold of him and stuff him in your pocket (you're not worried if your opponent gets distracted by this, are you?). The demon won't venture out of your pocket if you keep him at bay with a positive thought. Just say to yourself: "This serve is going IN!". Decide where to direct it (forehand/backhand/body), visualize it and do it.

Oh, I nearly forgot - empty your pocket and let the demon out just before the next change of ends. See how your opponent gets on with him!

Regards.

Dave Winship