Locker Room Power: Statements

Nadal's ferocious commitment has often unsettled Federer. The fact that we are human means that even the best competitors can be rocked by a true statement of intent. If this was a fallacy, there would never be upsets in sports. There are many athletes arguably less talented than some of their peers yet are able to beat them. Rafael Nadal has a winning record against Roger Federer, who is arguably equal to or better than Nadal in many areas of the game. It is Nadal's level of intention which caused Federer problems. Nadal plays with a ferocious commitment to win that unsettles most opponents. Understanding the importance of statements is critical in developing the art of winning the mental game. Making a clear statement of intent delivers a message to your opponent. The best players in the world understand the value of making an opponent feel uncomfortable. When you send a strong message it also builds your confidence. Messages can be sent in many ways. Shot making is one. Hitting a a big shot for a winner. Hitting a big serve or an ace on a big point. Counterattacking off your opponent's best shot. Other ways include, dictating the pace...