Stefanos Tsitsipas reveals what you need for perfect court coverage

Former world No 2 and two-time Grand Slam finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas feels that perfect court coverage is an asset to any player who wants to be successful at the highest level.

Tsitsipas shared his thoughts on how to achieve the best possible court coverage.

The Greek No 1 insists there are many factors in play, but hard work is a non-negotiable.

Tsitsipas feels that players who want to be successful need a team that will help drive them towards their goals and with things like court coverage and other related physical aspects of the game, it pays to have the best in the world in your camp.

“Court coverage is an essential asset in tennis because it allows players to effectively reach and return shots from all areas of the court,” Tsitsipas said in a Q&A with sponsors Red Bull when asked to describe the importance of this crucial tennis asset.

“It’s important to work on this aspect as a tennis player and this is why I have to surround myself with a great technical team which includes my fitness trainer, my coach and my physio.”

Tsitsipas also feels that having a good sense of what your opponent is trying to do or how they are likely to play is also important when it comes to making sure all the bases are covered to mix sporting metaphors.

“Apart from fitness, having a deep understanding of the game and the opponent’s tendencies is crucial for perfect court coverage. Prior to any match, my coach and I always study the opponent’s pattern so that I can try to anticipate the next move.”

As with everything in tennis, Tsitsipas believes that certain players operate off of a higher base because of natural talent but he still feels that hard work remains key.

“Talent certainly plays a role, as it provides a foundation for developing court coverage skills,” Tsitsipas said.

“I think it’s hard to be perfect at something but, by striving for it, you can certainly reach excellence through deliberate practice.”

Tsitsipas hopes that his big serve will give him an edge at Wimbledon although he concedes that he has to work on his volley game on grass.

“On grass, the serve remains crucial, but other factors such as movement and adaptability also come into play.

“Grass courts can be faster, making it more challenging to defend against powerful serves.

“However, players who can adjust their footwork and quickly adapt their game to the lower bounce and slick surface can gain advantage.

“So, while the serve remains important, the all-around game becomes vital on grass.

“Footwork is key, grass can be very physical as you are always having to stay low.

“Obviously, I am a fan of serve and volley so therefore I would like to keep working on that part of my game.”

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