How do you handle pressure when everything’s on the line? In this episode of Insider’s Playbook, Mike Rogers talks with 21-time gold ball champion and senior tennis legend Brent Abel about performing under stress in tiebreakers, match points, and finals. Brent breaks down how senior tennis players can use between-point routines, visualization, and self-talk to stay composed, think clearly, and play their best—especially when it matters most.

Whether you're gunning for gold or grinding out league matches, this conversation will rewire how you think about pressure. It’s a must-listen for any competitive senior tennis player who wants to trade nerves for clarity.

Contact Coach Brent Abel:

eMail: Brent@webtennis.com

Website: webtennis.com

YouTube: youtube.com/@webtennis

Twitter:  twitter.com/webtennis

Takeaways

·      Manage Between-Point Time

·      Clarity Beats Confidence

·      Visualization Builds Mental Muscle

·      Practice with Pressure Constraints

·      Self-Talk Is the Game-Changer

·      Confidence Starts Off Court

Chapters

0:00 – Intro: Brent’s achievements + today’s topic
1:21 – The mental key to handling pressure moments
2:10 – Why managing time between points is everything
3:00 – You’re not the only one feeling pressure
4:12 – Use your 12 games of intel before the tiebreak
6:00 – Stop future-tripping: focus on starting the next point
7:10 – Visualization training: how to rehearse tiebreak pressure
9:00 – Practicing pressure with constraints
10:20 – Why stroke mechanics won’t save you in pressure
11:01 – Translating the mindset to doubles
15:30 – Self-talk that flips confidence during a match
17:00 – Why affirmations work (and why not using them is riskier)
18:30 – Brent’s undefeated 2023 and mental prep secrets
20:00 – Confidence is built before you step on court
21:00 – Brent’s daily affirmation routine
22:00 – Forget “why” you choke—build the mental system
23:30 – Where to find Brent’s course, YouTube, coaching

About Senior Tennis Unpacked
Senior Tennis Unpacked brings you three ways to stay sharp and inspired on court:

·       Changeover — weekly articles with insights, stories, and strategies for senior players

·       Insider’s Playbook — expert interview series with coaches, champions, and performance pros

·       Gold Ball Tennis — my personal journey chasing national titles and sharing what I learn along the way

Join the STU Nation for FREE and get 3 bonus guides at Senior Tennis Unpacked

Bonus Guides:

·       Up Your Tennis Game — Smart strategies to win more

·       Frustrated to Focus — Mental reset for better matches

·       Get Fit Get Strong — Tennis-specific strength and mobility plan