La mental preparation is becoming a decisive factor in the performance of padel players. Between managing emotions, concentration and confidence in key moments, this dimension of the game is now establishing itself as a real lever for progress.
This is the observation of Jean-Michel Péquery, former professional tennis player (world top 180, french top 25) and former French number 11 in padel, who now supports players of all levels.

Convinced that the mind is as essential as technique or physical condition, he offers a series of themes of mental coaching for padel.
The first, dedicated to the building the mental base, lays the essential foundations to better manage pressure and decisive points.

The biggest obstacle is not technical, but mental.

Of course, it is essential to work on the technical aspects of the game: repeating the window exits trays, volleys or even lobs. But, according to Pequery, the real block in competition does not come from there.

Most players don't say, "I lost because my technique wasn't good." Instead, they say:

  • "I lacked concentration."
  • "I lost confidence in myself."
  • "I played small at the important moment."

In other words, it is often the dimension mental which turns a match.

Concrete example: a decisive point in competition

Imagine a semi-final of a P500The score is 5-5, 30-40, break point against you. At this precise moment, it's not technique that will make the difference. You've practiced your bandeja hundreds of times in training.

What will really matter is your ability to:

  • stay lucid,
  • keep your partner engaged,
  • control your emotions,
  • know where to focus your attention.

What depends on you… and what doesn’t depend on you

To better manage these moments, Jean-Michel Pequery advises distinguishing what is under your control and what is not.

Examples:

  • Win the match? No, it also depends on the opponent.
  • Choose where you place your ball? Yes.
  • Maintaining a positive attitude with your partner? Yes.
  • Deciding whether to tense up or relax after a mistake? Yes.

By becoming aware of this distinction, you will approach your matches with more serenity and better management of key moments.

Next: Learning to manage the fear of winning

In his next topic, Jean-Michel Pequery will address a feeling that all padel players know: fear of winningWhy, when we're two points behind, are we getting tense and making unusual mistakes? He'll give us some specific tips for turning this blockage into strength.

To go further and receive regular content, as well as the possibility of participating in free webinars, visit his website: Pequery Coaching – Your mental coach.

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovered padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since then, padel has been part of his life. You often see him touring France to cover major French padel events.

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