The mental side of tennis is very important in tennis, it being an individual sport that does not allow coaching. The player is on his/her own out there and can't rely on anyone else but himself/herself to win.

Playing a match is almost like playing chess against your opponent; you must always be on guard for your opponent's next move and can never show your emotions or lose your composure.

Being mentally strong means being under control throughout the match. Positive body language is very important too. In my career I realized that fighting for every point regardless of the score without showing signs of giving up will break down opponents many times.

In the high levels all players are technically sound and more or less equal. It's the mental ability to perform under pressure that separates the good from the great.