What mental tips does legendary tennis coach Rick Macci have for recreational players? What are his thoughts on on-court coaching for both pros and rec players? And what’s the best advice he’s ever given?
Hall of Fame coach Rick Macci joins us to share his wisdom and experience in our latest episode. His insights on staying composed, letting go of mistakes quickly, and turning them into motivation for the next point are invaluable for any tennis player.
Rick Macci has trained Serena and Venus Williams, Andy Roddick, Maria Sharapova, Jennifer Capriati, and many more. Five of his players have reached No. 1 in the world, and he has coached eight Grand Slam champions. His junior players have won 322 USTA National Championships, and over 60 WTA and ATP players currently work with him on a regular basis.
If you haven’t heard our first conversation with Rick, listen here.
Contact Rick
You can contact Rick at info@rickmacci.com or learn more about programs at https://rickmacci.com.
Podcast Episode Summary:
n part two of our conversation with Hall of Fame tennis coach Rick Macci, we dive deep into the mental side of the game—how to stay calm, reset after mistakes, and keep your attitude from sabotaging your performance. Whether you’re a competitive recreational player or just looking to enjoy tennis more, Rick’s advice is gold.
Key Takeaways from Rick Macci:
His Best Advice Ever Given (and Received):
“Try to get better every day—and appreciate what you have instead of focusing on what you don’t.” Rick’s approach is grounded in gratitude, humility, and genuine care for the players he coaches.
Master the Art of Forgetting:
The best players aren’t necessarily the most athletic—they’re the best at bouncing back. Rick says, “They remember to forget.” You have about 20 seconds between points to reset, and the greats treat every mistake like it happened 20 years ago.
Your Attitude Is Everything:
From Novak Djokovic to Serena Williams, Rick has seen firsthand that mindset separates champions. The only thing you truly control on court is your attitude. If you practice getting mad, you get better at it—but if you practice positivity, you get better at that too.
Smile and Breathe:
It may sound strange, but smiling when you hit the ball can calm your nervous system and help you relax. Rick has told thousands of players to try it—and they always feel more confident and in control.
Rec Players Need Coaching Too:
When asked about on-court coaching, Rick believes it should absolutely extend to recreational tennis. Most adults don’t train 50 hours a week—they have jobs, kids, and lives. Having a coach on court to guide you in the moment can make a big difference.