help, playing singles match (normally a doubles player)

blakesq

Hall of Fame
Hi,

I am a doubles "specialist" nowadays, but my usta team needs a singles player today. I filled in last week at singles, and got creamed (0 and 1). Last week, i completely had a mental breakdown, double faulted like crazy, felt nervous, knew the guy I was playing had previously beat our no. 1 singles.

So, today, I am playing singles again (no. 2). Any advice for this doubles specialist? I am in my early 40's, can stand to lose about 50 lbs, if that helps. Thanks.

blakesq
 

lolsmash

Rookie
Consistency is key. Don't get impatient because that's what kills us. Play aggressive, but that doesn't mean that you should hit the crap out of the ball.

Oh, and run your opponent more than he runs you.
 

Bagumbawalla

Talk Tennis Guru
Well, that 50 lbs could be the difference.

The main differences between singles and doubles are:

In singles you hit more groundstrokes/baseline- doubles more volleys/net.

In singles you must cover more court, do more running, expend more energy-- doubles you cover half the court, but need to have more pinpoint placements.

Suggestions: Doubles is all about getting the 1st serve in- Serve as you would in doubles and just get the ball in play- with spin. Eventually, you will neet to work on a flatter serve.

Then play percentage tennis. Hit the ball over the low part of the net, crosscourt, giving yourself the most margin of error. Move the opponent about until you get him off court, off balance, moving the wrong way, or until he hits a weak response-- then let your doubles qualities kick in. Move up and hit the ball for a placement and follow it to the net.

Use slice, as you would in doubles to create weak (upward) responses.

Use topspin, as you would in doubles, to open angles and go for placements.

Try to control play as much as possible. Once the opponent starts moving you around, with that extra weight, you will have a hard time.

Good luck,

B
 
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