-- Steve Tignor, Tennis Magazine
1. Enjoy the Experience - Cibulkova simply revels in the sport of tennis, even smelling the scent of fresh balls before serving, and constantly hopping and weaving between points. "The first step to playing tennis well is to play it enthusiastically."
2. Play Fast, But Don't Rush - Cibulkova doesn't waste time between points - yet still does not seem to rush. She maintains a speedy but steady pace. Playing promptly - but not rushed - helps you to avoid getting too negative or down about any one point or play.
3. Make Rackethead Speed Your Friend - Cibulkova knows that - when you are attacking - the faster you swing (with spin), the safer your shot will be.
4. Engage - Cibulkova engages with her coach during practices and hits, exchanging and discussing things. "Get involved in your own learning process, and you'll push your coach to think more deeply about your game."
5. Fight, Don't Whine - Cibulkova could make excuses for her lack of height - but she doesn't. She compensates. For example, on the serve she has developed a high toss to allow her to get as far into the court as possible. On her groundstrokes, she tries to counter her lack of size with speed and executing the first strike.
Excerpts from:
"Learning from . . . Dominika Cibulkova", Steve Tignor, Tennis Magazine (Jan.-Feb. 2017), Page 53.
No comments:
Post a Comment