It can be described as the ability to maintain focus for long periods of time, to deal with adversity, and to stay in the present moment. These are all well and good, but why is it that certain individuals are able to take control more than others. Is this an innate skill inherent in the essential character of a being or is this a learned skill developed when continually confronted by difficult situations.

Rafael Nadal is currently the world's number 1 and demonstrates all the qualities of being mentally tough. He is extremely hard to beat no matter the surface, but on clay he has created an aura of invisibility losing a mere 5 times out of 155 matches over the past 4 years.  His ability to stay focused for long periods of time and play every point as if it is the most critical puts him heads above the rest. This skill, along with his shear athleticism, puts tremendous pressure on his opponents to match him stroke for stroke and game after game. He can take advantage of any letdown from his opponent to take control of the game, and inevitably, the match.

Another athlete who shows this kind of mental toughness is Tiger Woods, who recently returned from a 9 month layoff after having knee surgery. In just his second tournament back he came from 5 shots back on the final day to win the tournament. His mental fortitude is incredible. When Tiger misses key shots he is still able to find ways to put himself in a position to win a tournament from seemingly unrecoverable positions. On a regular basis, he is able in transform his frustration into positive outcome and still give himself a chance to win.

Kobe Bryant and LeBron James are two of the best basketball players in the NBA who also exhibit the same mental toughness qualities. They can influence a game at any moment, always ready to compete on any stage, and look forward to the challenge of having the ball at the end of the game with a chance to win. Their competitiveness fuels their desire to always get better. Recently, Kobe was interviewed and said that a loss is a loss, no matter the numbers. He only focuses on the wins and what it takes to win.

So where does that leave the likes of we mortals? First, it starts with taking a positive attitude towards making changes, then investing time on the areas that need the most work. Apply positive mental energy to see the changes through to the end, doing your best not revert back to what is comfortable. When dealing with adversity you have to love the challenge and the competition. Not every match is going to be comfortable but the effort you put out to confront your own internal issues will likely make you better in the long run and help you enjoy this game of tennis.
 
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Matt Copland