At the end of February, I launched into a series of “Tennis Training and Technology” posts each featuring a training technique or exercise that made a cameo appearance during the new Netflix documentary “Break Point.” Two months later, we are approaching the midpoint of S1E2. The docuseries is a wealth of insight into the training methods woven into the fabric of the game at the elite levels.
At the 24:40 mark of S1E2, Matteo Berrettini is seen musing about his upcoming match with Carlos Alcaraz. It ultimately turned out to be an epic 5-set thriller. During the video montage under that monologue, Berrettini is seen performing a ball catch and footwork drill shortly before the players start the walk out for that match.
An offscreen training partner tosses a tennis ball to Berrettini, who catches it with his palm facing down. As he is preparing to toss it back, a second ball is delivered to his other side, which he also catches. Berrettini is light on his toes and keeps his feet moving the entire time. The entire sequence runs approximately 4.1 seconds.
This is a fabulous drill to stay loose immediately before a match. It also mentally primes the player for a razor-sharp focus on the ball immediately before play begins. I love the dynamic aspects that using two balls provides for this drill. The player has to focus on the incoming ball while dealing with the distraction of returning the ball that is still in hand. Neurons are firing for all the right reasons.
This simple activity is a great way to redirect nervous energy toward a positive purpose. It keeps the blood flowing while priming the brain and the eyes to watch the ball. Every player should have some form of this exercise in their toolbox.
