How to Mentally Handle Playing Better Opponents I Brent Abel

When you're facing a stronger player—on paper, in the draw, or in your head—how do you keep from losing the match before it even starts? In this episode of Insider’s Playbook , senior tennis legend Brent Abel (21 national titles, ITF World Doubles Champion, founder of WebTennis.com ) joins Mike Rogers to unpack what actually works when you're up against better competition. From mindset shifts to on-court strategy, Brent explains why trying to “play up” usually backfires—and what to do instead. Whether you're the underdog or just feel outmatched, this episode delivers the mental and tactical tools to stay calm, compete smart, and use every match as a learning opportunity. Contact Coach Brent Abel: eMail: Brent@webtennis.com Website: webtennis.com YouTube: youtube.com/@webtennis Twitter: twitter.com/webtennis Takeaways · Stop trying to play your “A+ game” · Make them play · You can level up without winning · Avoid the “respect trap” · Probe your opponent, not your pro · Practice what pressure feels like . · Being consistent is a weapon Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Brent Abel 01:13 – Why players lose before the match starts 03:50 – Brent’s breakthrough mindset 05:35 – The myth of needing to go bigger 06:42 – Playing down to weaker opponents 08:13 – How to play regardless of level 09:04 – “Going for it” vs. going smart 11:17 – What to do when you’re outmatched 12:52 – The illusion of giving too much respect 14:37 – Ask better questions post-match 17:08 – What high-level consistency actually looks like 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