Every tennis player, no matter their level, makes mistakes. The key isn’t about avoiding them altogether—it’s about understanding why they happen so you can make the right adjustments and improve on the next shot. Surprisingly, over 75% of errors on the court stem from just two common mistakes: mishitting the ball and hitting it late. Let’s break these down and explore how to correct them effectively.
1. Mishitting the Ball
Mishits happen when you don’t strike the ball in the center of the racquet, and this is by far the most common error in tennis. While there are several reasons why this might occur, the main culprit is a lack of focus on the ball at the point of contact.
Watch the pros, and you’ll notice something striking—they keep their head and eyes locked on the ball all the way through contact, sometimes even after the ball has left their racquet. This exaggerated focus ensures that they make clean contact, maximizing control and power.
If you’re struggling with mishits, try this: as you swing, focus on watching the ball until it meets your strings. Imagine your racquet as a target and visualize the ball connecting perfectly in the center. Practicing this intentional focus will help reduce mishits and improve your consistency.
2. Hitting the Ball Late
The second most common error comes from poor timing—hitting the ball late. This often happens because players aren’t recovering quickly or aren’t fully prepared for the next shot. In essence, they’re caught off guard, leading to rushed strokes and missed opportunities.
To fix this, make it a habit to recover immediately after finishing your shot. As soon as your follow-through is complete, return to a neutral, ready position and prepare for the next ball. Expect the ball to come back every time, no matter how great your previous shot was. Staying alert and ready keeps you on your toes and helps you strike the ball at the right moment.
Putting It All Together
By focusing on these two simple adjustments—keeping your eyes on the ball through contact and always being ready for the next shot—you’ll significantly reduce errors and hit better shots more consistently. Tennis is as much about staying engaged and prepared as it is about executing great technique.
So, next time you step onto the court, keep these tips in mind: watch the ball all the way through contact, and never let your guard down after a shot. With practice, these small but impactful habits will transform your game.
