It's Not My Game....It's the Weather! (Wind)

Unless you are rich enough to play all your matches indoors, you will have to deal with the weather at one point or another. It is very important that you recognize the weather as another player in your game because it is always trying to impose it's will. Since the spring seems to have the most unpredictable weather in Georgia, it is a good time to discuss this. Starting with the WIND.

Wind

Indian Wells 2009 was the wierdest day of finals I ever saw!  They don't postpone matches based on wind.

The wind is a very tricky foe. It turns on and off without warning and seems to effect each side at different times. It can also come from any direction. In general you want to play a conservative 3/4th power game and use more spin.

Stay Mentally Strong

You cannot control the wind. So do not let it get you upset.

Different Wind Directions

Oh man! Depending upon the direction wind is blowing, the ball will break to that effect. If the wind is blowing into your back then the ball will stop short. If its to your front, the ball will move faster and deeper into the court towards you. If the wind is breaking left or right then the ball will move left or right. It is really important to notice this early and make the adjustments in your game.

Footwork

Footwork is the key in most of tennis. But it REALLY matters when it is windy. Take note of the wind early and try to tell yourself what the ball is going to do before the game starts. Then get the jump on the ball. If the wind breaks to the left, stand in a spot where you can lean and hit a shot that jumps to the left. If the wind is to your back, play up in the court. Etc.

Serve

Forget about your power serve. The wind will move your toss all over the place. Spin serves are the key since you have a little more time to judge where the ball is in the toss.

Ground Strokes

You will want to work your topspin as much as you can if the wind is to your back. If you hit the ball flat, it will be pushed long. Hit out on the ball if the wind is to your front. If you can, work the slice in to save you some time. If the wind is blowing left or right, move the court in your mind a few feet in the direction the wind is moving.

Volleys

Generally if you can hit good enough shots to come to the net with, the wind is not enough of a factor. But if you are brought to the net, make sure you play your volleys light and short around the service line and be vigilant for out balls.

If you accept the wind is going to make your day difficult and plan accordingly, you will play with more confidence. The trick to it is handling the wind better than your opponent and not being too aggressive.