How NOT to beat MEP (Tennis Pusher Success Keys)

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The Most Exhausting Player (AKA Green Shirt Guy) is notorious for making people run around the court and pay for their mistakes. He may be a very unconventional player, but he is super intelligent when it comes to tennis strategy. We've broken down some key tips to having success against pusher so you can win then next time you play one, or if you ever get the chance to play M.E.P., to be able to defeat him!
0:00 The Most Exhausting Player
0:53 How to Win
2:54 Apply Pressure
4:40 Not Strong Enough
7:14 Net Strategy
9:07 Strong Volleys
11:39 Solid Overhead
13:39 Action Plan
#tennis #pusher #strategy------------
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If you can read this you have an impressive scrolling game.
:-)

[@EssentialTennis]

Here's the original match play video from TennisTroll. Big kudos to both MEP and TopKnot for putting their match play out there on the internet! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqjKg5SNhpplna8

[@darthtau]

How dare you read my thoughts at 8:45 -Topknot P.s. Get outta my brain please

[@EssentialTennis]

😆

[@scottbroady3159]

@@darthtau the name intrigues. Can you elaborate? (Thebakerdan , not TopKnot)

[@darthtau]

@@scottbroady3159 I used to be a baker. "Dan" isn't my name, but it sounds good.

[@scottbroady3159]

@@darthtau Gotcha! I did a couple of stints in college in a cookie store and a bagel bakery, and the reference piqued my interest. I like your game, and I appreciate your willingness to put it out there for everyone.

[@meganfernandez733]

"Missed the finishing shot" should be on my gravestone - it's the story of my tennis life.

[@EssentialTennis]

😆

[@melfox215]

Listen to Michael Jackson's old song "You are not alone". :) Honestly, in my club almost any player below 20 years of age and many of the above average players have problems in finishing points. What coaches used to tell me when I was young, is to NOT thinking to hit a winner, but only a very good shot and be very ready to receive a ball back. The thought of finishing makes it more difficult to execute plus if you can hit it the way you had wanted but your opponent can hit it back, you wouldn't be ready for the next shot. Additonally, you can practice almost any shot. We use to train attacking/finishing shots by just hitting balls and attack the ball as soon as it is shorter than the service line. When you hit many of these, you should try longline and cross balls to get the feeling for them. You will will find out, that it's not necessary to hit them at 100% pace but 90% precision plus the best angles. Also running around slow short balls to hit forehands even when the ball is more on your backhand side. Keep on working!

[@markinglis8546]

You can turn it around Megan!

[@atacama7645]

same 😂

[@joemarshall4226]

@@melfox215 There are a lot of problems with hitting volleys, especially slow, weak floaters where you have to generate all the power your self, and ESPECIALLY in the wind and sun. The slightest breeze can throw things off. The thing is, you have to know WHICH volley your are going to hit before you get to the ball, so you concentrate on that, and not on where your opponent is. In general, a high volley should be hit with pace crosscourt , angled off by the service line if you are close enough to the net to do that. Low volleys should be angle sharply across the net like drop shots. But a good defensive player will adjust his passing shots to a slower speed and higher height, so he can run your ball down and pass you with the next shot. So you need plan B, where you hit the high volleys BEHIND your running opponent. None of this is easy..especially on the high backhand, where you really have to generate pace with your feet. You also must have a good overhead...Again, don't go for winners, just solid shots, and be able to hit the overheads cross-court or inside out WITH DISGUISE....daunting, no? The higher a volley is, the further away from your body you should hit it.....Too many players (myself included) jam themselves on high backhand floaters. And in the end, don't expect to win all your net points. IF you are winning HALF of them, it's still a good strategy, because the ratio improves wit the points you win because of the THREAT of your net attack..your opponent will go for too much, worrying if you are sneaking in. Play doubles to gain more confidence in your volleys....just hit them at the opponents' feet! LOL

[@ariurip3751]

We have so much respect for MEP now, he is the star of tennistroll

[@EssentialTennis]

He's the real deal!

[@joehasenauer1288]

Agree. You get zero points for style. He who puts the last ball over the net, in the court wins the point.

[@smittywerbenjagermanjensen1051]

@@joehasenauer1288 Not on the court, at least. I have a friend who plays with an extreme western grip, and he used to have people offer to hit with him for $30-50/hr, just because they’d never seen anything like it.

[@zalmal5220]

Top notch is an over rated 4.5

[@CoachAdrian]

Great strategic advise! I might also add that you really need to respect the game of MEP or other so-called “pushers.” Often, players “hate” pushers, but you have to love it and embrace the challenge in order to beat them. I love playing against them because it helps me work on my volleys and overheads 😀👍

[@EssentialTennis]

💯

[@hcubic]

MEP is very consistent with his limited set of shots, and that is one of his strengths, but I think the biggest one is his unwillingness to give in. He runs down every darn ball and is willing to do it all day long. He is smart and fast.

[@EssentialTennis]

Totally agree, Hal!

[@joemarshall4226]

I wouldn't call his shot selection limited.....It's actually more diverse than a typical player. He hits a flat forehand, a slice flrehand, and a slap forehand (the high ones). He has a slice backhand, and a topspin passing shot BH. He hits a two handed BH occasionally on defensive shots, and even switches hands on the BH to make gets...there's a lot of variety there. More trained players might do well to mix a few of these shots into their games.

[@lololmao7]

I’ve found that drop shotting these kinda players works the best. The pushers in ATL (haven’t come across MEP yet) typically aren’t gonna run to the net to try and return a drop shot. It gets them frustrated. I hate doing it, but it’s good practice.

[@EssentialTennis]

That can definitely be an effective option!

[@ql3670]

Not if you do it too early, especially against MEP. I've seen a few try that against MEP, and he just runs to the ball and makes a counter drop shot. Counter drop-shotting, especially while on the run, is a skill few people have.

[@adamlawyer1]

@@ql3670 So true! Hitting touch shots while at a full gallop is seriously difficult...especially once you get your 6'3" frame some inertia!

[@DTwoHS]

Re: the "putaway shots" - I think what's happening here (and what I've often fallen victim to myself) is that during practice, TopKnot will play out the rally/point until it gets to the putaway shot and just yada-yada it away - in other words, the thinking is: "ok I've done all the important work here, the point is basically done," and not place proper weight on the importance of actually executing the finishing shot. You can see he has pretty decent footwork up until he prepares for the putaway shot(s) and then his feet basically stop moving, almost as if he's expecting some sort of gentleman's surrender from MEP.

[@EssentialTennis]

Totally agree!

[@vilainkikinou9951]

Very true. I do that too often!!

[@ANGELOFDARKification]

The tornado/whirlpool graphic is such a good learning tool! Great job Professor Ian!

[@iabhali]

Well done to both players for putting up this video. Greatly appreciated. Another suggestion for TopKnot is earlier preparation on his ground strokes. I have the same problem with players who hit with no pace, tending to wait for the ball to cross the net and bounce, then prepare to hit. The hit tends to be rushed as we underestimate the speed in which the ball is approaching.

[@geausportequipment]

One of the best tactical videos I've seen on how to beat a player like MEP. Well done Ian.

[@lukeoldfield7940]

Perfect. This encapsulates all of the issues I am having losing to defensive players right now - I have not worked nearly enough on volleys and overheads and keep losing points that I am in control off!

[@joepardo4807]

I’m playing a guy like this tomorrow he’s very defensive, so your video has come at the right time. I’ll let you know how I get on🤞🏼

[@melfox215]

I truely feel with that guy being defeated by MEP. I totally believe I would struggle the same way there. A guy that can run on a high level, is consistent and hits many slices is my pure nightmare as volleys and overheads are the worst tools in my toolbox. The last time I lost to a guy of that pusher sort of type, a friend of mine said: "Be more aggressive and play more frequently against these type of players or you won't defeat them moving forward."

[@EssentialTennis]

I totally agree with your friend!

[@rsmith02]

Practice doubles. The transition game getting to net is literally every point so you'll end up rock solid when it comes to the same in singles.

[@stephanesurprenant60]

@@rsmith02 That's definitely true. Doubles has improved my net game quite a bit. I play a lot of S&V in singles now that my serve is complemented by a better net game. That makes a killing against defensive players, but you have to commit to your shots and really go for that net. You can't lazily tap a volley against a softy: you need to give it a bit of pace. If you're not that kind of player, working to an approach shot also works. Chip and charging their serve is also a solid option. MEP is good enough to make your life hard, but capturing that ground is easier than trying to hurt them from the baseline.

[@Wannabe-Pro]

Awesome lesson, MEP makes you miss that payoff shot. His ball comes back slow, he’s fast and gets back into position, makes you wanna hit just a little harder and a little closer to the line, drawing more misses.

[@EssentialTennis]

Absolutely!

[@Reakerboy]

Now you've been watching too much Essential tennis Biren! 😂

[@Wannabe-Pro]

@@Reakerboy what can I say? I’m not a “percentage Tennis” guy but this channel is just too entertaining

[@VanHelsing0001]

It's me playing against a MEP twice a week, always losing, i began hating the sport couse of him, but he's my friend and tennis partner i cant change🤣 whatever i do i couldnt break his zero technique defensive style, ball throwing to otherside game(i couldnt say its tennis😁). I hope these kinds of videos help me, i'll try to execute the tips.. Thank you Ian, you are the man👍

[@EssentialTennis]

Hope the videos keep helping!

[@CorriganDP]

Oh thank you so much, desperately needed this! I’ve been losing to pushers since I started.

[@EssentialTennis]

Hope it's a huge help, Jake!

[@leebr2010]

This is a great video, reminders of what we need to do to finish the points. I've been struggling against pushers and moonballers like so many people. Missing the final shot is the most painful of all. It demoralizes you for the next point and weighs on you mentally as the match goes on, until you feel disgusted with your own game.

[@davidfox9875]

Good video - thank you, Ian

[@EssentialTennis]

You're very welcome!

[@cwr1210]

Great info! Always found it difficult to play against this type of player. Your points on overheads and consistency are right on the money (at for me!!).

[@EssentialTennis]

Glad it was helpful!

[@gab_ale]

Pushers were definitely a learning experience for me back in the day. Thanks to them I learned patience, learned to fake with my body to confuse them, and developed more awareness of angles and depth.

[@hleaf]

One strength of MEP is that his game plan is built to not just win points, but psychologically destroy his opponents. If you watch his matches, you'll see tons of players come out strong and then they miss that first overhead, that first sitter volley, and the process starts. Their shoulders slump, they start talking to themselves, etc. Their strategy worsens, they tighten up, and so on. His match with the d1 women's recruit is a great example, she won the first set with excellent ground strokes and Ian's "outhit" strategy. But after just a few mishits in the second set, she was mad at herself during changeovers and self-destructed, giving away points and spraying shots. Conversely, MEP's genial, almost carefree attitude during matches seems like a very underrated part of his game. I'm not sure I've ever seen him "in his own head."

[@astropiazzolla]

I liked the simple layout of ways to win and the funnel analogy. My feeling is that some of TopKnot's shots are disproportionately better than others, so yes, working on his volleys and overheads will simply make him a better player and move him up a level. So matches like this works like a great self-evaluation tool. Perhaps he could try to hit more winners from the baseline or swinging volleys even, if he's just going to stick to his current arsenal - but much easier said than done. Also hitting deep works at all levels - another thing that's easier said than done at these levels of play of course.

[@sidneykey1189]

Awesome & helpful video!

[@EssentialTennis]

Glad it was helpful!

[@alwaysprepared]

I normally go down the toilet instead of down the funnel... My issue is also the putaway shots. I can get as many floating shots as I want, but my overhead and putaway volleys are not consistently good enough to beat my 'favorite' pusher... You're right, that this is the cause of my frustration with myself. I have so many chances and so many failures to convert them into points.. I already knew this, so I didn't learn anything new, but it's a good validation of my analysis....

[@EssentialTennis]

"Down the toilet instead of down the funnel" is definitely my favorite comment of the day 😆

[@joemarshall4226]

Here's a tip that might help: It's probably the high floating volleys that give you the most trouble. The higher the shot is off the ground, THE FURTHER AWAY FROM YOUR BODY it should be when you contact it. So if you see a floater, and you run in to smack it, don't run right up to it and slap at it...move into it on a slant, and hit the ball with an almost straight arm. several feet away from your body. This will give you more easy power, and better disguise of the shot...you can hit this ball cross court or inside out, and wait till the last second to decide. ON the high backhand, it's a little tougher. But keep the ball away from your body, and generate the power with your legs, mostly...don't get jammed. The inside out backhand volley is a good option

[@forbirthday6020]

Ian, with every video you make on how to beat MEP, the pressure on you beating him rises! I mean if you lose, some might say, the whole integrity of your channel is on the line :)

[@EssentialTennis]

Nah, I don't think so. Just because I know the path to take doesn't mean I can execute it perfectly myself. They're two very separate things. Of course, some people believe that if I can't personally hit a great one handed backhand then I can't possibly be good at teaching it or explaining it. Their loss 😉

[@Reakerboy]

Totally disagree @For Birthday. As long as Ian goes out and plays the best he can, on the day, no integrity will ever be lost from a channel which gives so much to the YT tennis community. Win or Lose, its the being out on courts that matters, all respect for taking on MEP in the first place... I wouldn't want to, especially in front of potentially 100's of thousands of people. Respect and love the game, not the outcome. 👍🏻✌🏻

[@EssentialTennis]

Appreciate your support, Reakerboy!

[@rafaellozada2544]

🤦🏻‍♂️

[@joemarshall4226]

Top Knot has a weak backhand volley, and MEP knew it. I can identify with TK...it's a shot that I never mastered, especially in the wind and sun. It's a shot that takes a lot of practice, and for guys who just play matches most of the time, it's not oging to happen.

[@EssentialTennis]

Yup, gotta make those volleys!

[@renoman5573]

This was a great video

[@alexanderkaminski4866]

Suggestion Ian vs MEP I wanna see this Make it happen

[@scottbroady3159]

I’d like to see that too

[@CoachAdrian]

Be careful what you wish for! Remember, Ian is coming off from a major ankle injury, and I really don't want to see MEP beat Ian!

[@jackcslewis2009]

@@CoachAdrian I would love to see that match no matter how it ends up. In general I'm not a big fan of watching MEP but that match I would watch for sure.

[@EssentialTennis]

It's going to happen...

[@scottbroady3159]

@@CoachAdrian I’ve hit with Ian several times, and he’s just about ready for any and all comers!

[@markoshun]

Great instruction and analysis. For topknot, at least from these clips, seems to be a case of a fine strategy, but lacking the net skill set to execute. (See also: roddick playing fed at Wimbledon) So, develop net skill set to finish once you’re down at the bottom of that spiral.. hmm.. that doesn’t sound quite right. :-) Good news is there’s lots here for topknot to work with. Playing a strategic and solid guy like mep will point out the weaknesses in your game. You are doing the rec world a lot of good using these videos. Good one as always. thanks.

[@EssentialTennis]

Glad you enjoyed it, Mark!

[@Reakerboy]

I watched this match also, I watch all of Trolls matches actually and your explanation of the match outcome was exactly the same as mine. Im glad someone else has the same opinion as me, kinda makes you feel good, don't it? 😂 Now, on another note, I am also glad to see you doing your homework on MEP. Are you going to put the action plan into place? 😉 Awesome vid. Look forward to seeing you back out on court soon. 👍🏻

[@EssentialTennis]

I'll most definitely be putting this into action, yes. It's difficult for me to stay on the baseline for long 🙂

[@-Munditimum-]

Truly one of the most Impactful Tennis videos I have seen at least recently on KZbin. The depth and psychological examination of the subjects in play, and overall, are very impressive. If a player works on these substantial topics, both regarding strategy and psychology, they will improve significantly no matter what level they're at. What you speak of here is at three levels, 1- Recognition of these ideas 2- Brain stamping them and Finally 3- actually perform them on court. I truly appreciate your superb knowledge and love for your craft Ian. Much respect for the ET team, delivering your message so clearly. Brilliant!

[@EssentialTennis]

❤🙏

[@joehasenauer1288]

Indeed, I have shanked my share of sitters. I see Top Knot needs to seriously improve the volley and overhead. He did not look comfortable at net. It appeared that he expected to win with a serve and ground stroke strategy. I got some good advice by a ranked player. He told me the difference between a good player and a great player is that the great player never misses a sitter

[@sabinah]

This is why players like MEP exists at every level. As a defensive player, I can relate to not being able to execute under pressure. I would much rather play someone who makes mistakes here and there so I also feel I can take more risk and make a few mistakes too but hopefully win more than 50%.

[@EssentialTennis]

Always good to hear from you, Sabina!

[@JovanniG678]

Ain't that the truth!! This happens to me more time in a match then i would like to admit..

[@EssentialTennis]

That's true of all of us!

[@letrantrung1]

man, I watches this before and I am watching this again now. just lost to a great counter puncher yesterday in a Double match.

[@gretchenlittle6817]

As always, very astute analysis! If I may, perhaps "fitness/training" deserves a place on the "to do" list also. As an okay younger player who spent a few decades away from the game, my shots came back fairly well. But, approaches that paid off when I was younger no longer worked. I knew where to go and how to execute the finisher, but my body could no longer get there in time. I'm not knocking TopKnot's fitness -- he may very well be in excellent shape. But generally, I think a lot of tentative volleys and overheads result from a player's fitness level preventing them from staying ahead of the point.

[@EssentialTennis]

Excellent point, Gretchen!

[@darthtau]

Gretchen, I'm fat and lazy, but thank you for your optimism and time -Topknot

[@demikester5409]

I heartily agree that fitness is important, and I think it deserves mention as a pre-requisite for playing someone like MEP. If your physical conditioning and stamina are not up to snuff, you have little chance against a pusher, who will run down your aggressive shots and make you hit another ball. And once your conditioning goes, your legs get rubbery, you start reaching for shots, and your swing gets tentative.

[@Stan-B]

I loved the moment starting at 7:33, that was a real drama)

[@EssentialTennis]

haha thanks!

[@giacomomineo1358]

I've been playing a pusher recently; he was the best lobber of all time. I went to the net so many times and played so many smashes but in the end, he was always passing me making the best lobs. I'm very tall and wasn't even stay too close to the net. No way I could finish him off. He made only three unforced errors in the match. I lost 6/3 6/4 in two and a half hours... incredible. He is the UK's MEP! Now I'm looking forward to playing him again. Challenge accepted!

[@johnhhh3591]

Good lesson! Topknot has a nice game and pretty much all the strokes, and it's clear he's hit a lot of balls, but I think there are several things he can do with his general on-court mechanics. In general, he needs to bend his knees more, ALL THE TIME. His ground strokes are very grooved, but look a bit awkward because he's not using his knees very much. And he's slow moving to the ball because a straight-leg stance won't allow him a powerful first step. Especially moving forward, if he's got pretty straight legs and he's got to react to the opponent's ball quickly, from his straight leg stance he's almost immediately off balance. The split step needs to always involve bent knees. And, also he needs much better racket control between hits. He is very slow on ground strokes to get back to a good ready position with his racket up and straight forward, and after he hits a volley, he needs to pull his racket back in to ready position quickly and be ready for the follow-up. And it looks like he sort of meanders forward, or lurches forward, but doesn't seem to have a great game plan when approaching. Meandering forward is fine, but when the ball comes back, he needs to be crisp. He also doesn't seem to have a spot picked out to hit the ball to when he moves to the net. He looks like he's always hoping for a first volley winner and doesn't seem to plan for the all-important second volley. It ain't over 'til it's over. Good luck to Topknot and I hope to see him against MEP again. I'd suggest hitting easy loopers high to MEP's backhand as a strategy, over and over. And, bending your knees is exhausting...

[@EssentialTennis]

Great thoughts, John!

[@johnhhh3591]

Thanks! Plus, first volley almost always down the line, right?@@EssentialTennis

[@gmurph623]

I'm slowly getting to the point where I can do short overhead rallies against a wall. It's a lot of fun and the payout is great.

[@EssentialTennis]

Awesome practice!

[@transklutz]

Overhead rally? What's that?

[@gmurph623]

@@transklutz You hit an overhead right at the base of a training wall so that it bounces up high, then repeat. Intuitive Tennis shows it here kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYaanqRuqr-agNE

[@TennisTrollChannel]

2:02 is a really good strategy blueprint.

[@EssentialTennis]

Always appreciate your match play footage, Troll!

[@darthtau]

Like, really good. So good, in fact, that it's exactly what I tried to do. -Topknot

[@jaidenoutofcontext7290]

Hey Ian I’ve gotten a new heavier racket and I want to adapt my backhand to the one handed can you send me a link to an in-depth tutorial for it if there is?

[@WikiPeoples]

This is what has been working for me: Pull the pusher in close to the net with a drop shot or low skidding ball. The lower the ball the better. Force them to return the shot either as a weak midcourt shot, or a lob... and then absolutely SLAM it back at them. Right at them. If your attack shot back to them is good, you'll almost always overpower their volley. If your slam is good, you'll just win the point. I have had less success hitting baseline slams at them, because that's what they're good at returning! That's the strength of their game, they take fast aggressive shots and deflect them back to you from the baseline. So the solution is pull them in close out of their comfort zone, and send a slammer their way.

[@abbonierecrackkuchetv7206]

Would love it if you could break down a match in which someone beats MEP. I know you already gave many tips for winning against him, but it would be nice to see them work out in a real match.

[@EssentialTennis]

Great idea!

[@Sandrat212]

I can soooo relate (unfortunately ;-)). I can do a good approach shot, come to the net and then....pfffft....not able to put it away and end the point. I'm not getting all excited and hitting the net but I hit a volley that's returnable. So the point ends up going a few more hits back and forth before it ends.

[@EssentialTennis]

Yup. SUPER common issue. You're not alone!

[@olamartinsson5376]

Thank you! Question: As you can see - he usually hits with underspinn and/or sidespinn. And not a lot of pace... Those kind of shots make me defensive because my returns to those tend to go to long. The reason to that is that most players I usually play hit with at least some topspinn... So - should my groundstroke swingpath be more vertical to those underspinn/sidespinn shots to create topspinn? And/or faster swing than normal? 😊

[@EssentialTennis]

Yes to both, Ola! Excellent observation and call!

[@cldavis33]

Kudos to TOPKNOT for the match and visibility. I know I have played so many matches and points just like this with the same result. it takes time to process and fix things....that's what keeps us coming back.

[@EssentialTennis]

💯

[@darthtau]

You da real MVP -Topknot

[@davelee6002]

I think it's worth noting that you wanted him to both do more with his volleys and short balls, and also make less errors on those shots. There's an inherent tension there that could be explored. I don't think Topknot would be surprised to hear that he needs general improvement on those shots. We all would benefit from just improving our shot making and competitive mentality, right? But I have to say, I was impressed by his play. He seemed to try to just play his game, and adjusted his margins as needed. The amount of winners he hit against MEP were impressive, and a sign that he was up to the challenge. There may have been some tactical errors along the way, but I'm not sure what they were. Would be interesting to hear about those.

[@JanChodura68]

Oh, "the last shot" reminds me - opponent in hopeless situation with raised hand. I did micro out.

[@andreasmueller8353]

Respect to Topknot, so easy to sit on your sofa and criticize him but when out there on camera and probably already fearing risk of embarrassment with every shot, that’s a totally different thing.

[@andrewlee5853]

There's a lot of stuff going on with Topknot's volleys. He almost looks like he's swinging around a lead umbrella. Is the racket too heavy? Also, on the volleys, maybe just try to redirect. Might not always be a winner, but would cut down errors. I shouldn't talk though. MEP would probably wipe the floor with me. =) Kudos to topknot for getting out there!

[@CoachAdrian]

True! It did seem like his racquet was heavy! I feel TK decelerated his volleys and lacked overall commitment to them. With volleys, you need to have the conviction to put it away.

[@aimeecali732]

Very helpful. Pushers are the worst!

[@EssentialTennis]

Glad it was helpful, Aimee!

[@paddlepower888]

And the best!

[@aimeecali732]

@@paddlepower888 it’s true they’re the best for a strategy but for someone who spends time learning to play “legit” it sucks to battle an opponent that doesn’t have the stroke quality, variety, etc. It’s a challenge and I’m learning to embrace it as I’m surprised how many high level 3.5’s and 4.0’s play this way. I’m a singles player, I welcome a pusher on the doubles court. 😝

[@jfdecastro]

Hey Ian... When will you play MEP match play?

[@JanChodura68]

As I play with my MEP. He plays "similar" tennis as David Ferrer did. He is like motor mouse, everywhere. And he plays much better tennis than MEP. There are a lot of things what I need improve. Last year I filtred 3 the most important as for me where can be faster progress. * solid servis, especially minimizing double faults * not to try win with return. There could be impressive winners but percentage maybe under 40 % and this type of error affects me negatively on next point. So I lost two points in a row frequently. * improving overhead (smash, high volleys) - these types of hits are really relatively easy. As for me they have the simplest technique. And another good result is opponent is not currently so sure with lobs or high balls and that's why he makes more errors too. It gives a few points but in tennis each point is important and even with result 6:2 it could be about 3 points. I tried this points improve last year and it was much better. So for next season I have these points for improving * footwork - some errors are because of bad preparation to shot * slice backhand - I play it well but I would like to have something with devastating effects as RF has * improve windshield forhand for approach shot or for sharper angle * and continue on improving of serve

[@stimsingh9361]

a match like this puts me back at the baseline for the next 3 months...

[@EssentialTennis]

Your net game will never advance that way, Stim!

[@baby16gurl9]

I’m, 3.5-4.0. I play with someone in a drill who is 2.5. It’s been so frustrating playing with her because When I get to the net she lobs it over my heads. I’m 4’8, it’s not fun running after that ball.

[@marktace1]

He also was locked into the pattern of hitting inside out forehands based on the small sample from these clips. High topspin to the backhand should’ve been the go to shot to get rallies going and get the advantage. That would’ve often set up the more comfortable inside out forehand as the finishing shot. Easier said than done against this type of player.

[@kevinroberts1744]

MEP clearly wants to play every ball from between the service line and base line and usually goes down the middle, which is great for him, his comfort zone. TopKnot should come to the net and play an angled volley. Which he doesn't do! Looks to be almost every net play his does a mini split step on the service line. From there your going to struggle to hit an angle pass a scrambler. On the odd few occasions he did get closer to the net and won the point. My advise to TopKnot is... Don't be scared, close the net, your vollies are good enough. The only reason I can think that your not coming close is your not confident in your overheads. Deal with that if/when they happen. Good match up.

[@aaravahuja4995]

I also struggle to put away the simplest of volleys or short balls. My coach says that as you try to finish the short ball, your racquet face should be pointing more towards the ground and you should try or hit it flatter. But most of the times while hitting short balls, the racquet twists in my hand. Could you suggest a way around this?

[@EssentialTennis]

Yes, your racquet face should be more closed on short, sitting shots. RE the racquet twisting, that's from not hitting the center of the strings! Here's how to fix it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJPWfYCFqN6bmK8

[@aaravahuja4995]

@@EssentialTennis Thanks. BTW I recently played a match with an 11 year old(I am 14 myself) and lost 5-8. He was a defensive player and would hit deep, topspin shots. I tried to target his one-handed backhand as I assumed it would be weak, judging by his age. And I was right. But perhaps I did not target it with aggression. I would hit a couple of good shots, then it would be followed by an ‘okay’ shot. And I tired myself out by trying to play aggressively, but it did not turn out as expected and though my consistency was good, the pace and power was not great. I even engaged in long rallies with him, but he kept hitting really high, deep balls to the baseline and would not yield to my efforts to target his BH. Eventually, I kept tiring and blew a 5-4 lead. He was not really a pusher, but a good defensive player. What could I have done to conserve energy and at the same time, target his weakness more efficiently to get better results?

[@jlook6070]

I'm just like MEP but no offense skills in a match. How would I be able to get this funnel technique?

[@cldavis33]

Regarding the middle of this video - MISSING shots that seem routine or the put away. It is a big thing to ask the question WHY. Especially and most especially against a player like MEP - people tend to hit 'away' from them, not pick a 'very specific' spot on the court, and try to hit that spot for the finish. This can be an aim point issue and the body performs with the instruction or thought you give it. Hit away from MEP, take time away - those aren't aim points. Those are goals - an aim point is how to accomplish the goal on that particular shot that is. This is only one factor but it's a biggie I have found.

[@georgebasham2279]

I very much admire his conditioning, concentration, consistency and tenacity. I just don't understand why he does not want to experience the beauty of executing a great shot that is fluid and biomechanically sound. He almost makes a mockery of the game. Have some pride and honor the integrity of the sport. His ceiling given all of his positive attributes would be much higher if he would become a student of the game, and I could care less about his "internet fame" and "fan club". TopKnot has a nice serve and groundstrokes, if he would learn to hit crisp volleys and overheads he would have won easily. As it stands, it might have been better for him to have stayed back and gone for a big shot when he got the opening ... IF he had the endurance to do so. Ian's analysis and strategy is spot on, he excels at that.

[@sportscastercanada]

Maybe he has some physical disabilities that don’t enable him to experience the beauty of executing a great shot that is fluid and bio mechanically sound.

[@georgebasham2279]

@@sportscastercanada Yeah well kind of a jackass post by me all I know is if I played Ben I would collapse after about 3 games he has a lot of positive traits for sure I guess his unorthodox style is one reason he has a large following.

[@cldavis33]

Regarding building that solid overhead. Many of us rec players focus 95% of our effort on the mechanics of that overhead. And that's fine to 'learn' the basic stroke. IN REALITY---> Overheads are reactive shots that come up in a match when someone whifs, bad lob, etc. 95% of your energy now has to be on footwork and anticipation, wind, sun, etc, to get to the spot to actually hit the overhead with good timing and mechanics. That's why we rec players hit so many of these awkward weak, crazy looking overheads, and wonder why in practice we hit them perfectly.

[@theonebegotten]

Where's the link in the description

[@Arunkumar-bg5xk]

Did Ian ever play the 'Most annoying player' (green t-shirt) ?

[@EssentialTennis]

Not yet. It's coming.

[@philipphammer3474]

Oh gosh it is like I am looking into a mirror. Often times I do just fine in the rally and can gain advantage, but my net/volley play is just awful. What hurts the most is not being able to consistently putting away your opportunities. More often than not I just shank the volley and give my opponent a sitter or at least put him back into play. Said if I don't flatout make the error myself. Often I recognize that if my opponent and I am playing kind of the same game I have the upper hand, but as soon as I am leading a bit or he gets tired he starts to just play in and beats me as soon as I am on the net. I would need a good day where I feel comfortable to outgun him and put the volleys away to beat that.

[@BEN-ys6gu]

What about playing their own game (the outlast strategy) for a few games until you have more confidence in your winning shots? Then if you start doing mistakes again to go back to long rallies for a bit to get warmed up again.

[@EssentialTennis]

Taking your foot off the gas will likely give you less confidence, not more.

[@BEN-ys6gu]

@@EssentialTennis I was thinking maybe you need to play the game a bit more before you're ready for the winners, but I'm still kind of a beginner. You're probably right

[@newtechi]

I lost a 3 hours match to a very similar player on a semifinal, but it was on a slow clay court, so even more hellish. I think i should had used the drop shot almost every point. And Not going for risky winners only high topspin, not forcing the ball to keep the energy. Also being much more careful going to the net, he had the same passing shots. Still on clay it gets super hard 2-3rd set, when the balls are not so fresh and the body is more tired, this kind of players because of never attacking and playing super relaxed never get tired.

[@thomasmedeiros5722]

If you practice against good defensive players on a regular basis you are not surprised when you meet this strategy in a tournament or league match. Get some professional coaching to learn the skills to close out points. Do frequent drills and play lots of practice points going to,the net. Good approach shots should make it difficult to hit passing shots . Personally I love to hit heavy under spin on the BH and flat or side spin on the FH. This style of shot stays low and skids making it difficult to hit. MEP actually hits some shots like this and they force errors. Placement of the volley is essential. When in doubt volley it deep to,the side of the net that your already positioned at. If you volley cross court you better make it land near the side line and travel across the alley far out of reach. If you don’t you open up the court for a passing shot so you have to slide across to cover that area. It’s all about playing the zones and have superior tactical position. All of this falls apart if you make unforced errors. You can’t be a sometimes net player.

[@albertagt]

I used to play with someone that sliced EVERYTHING even passing shots will be slices... to the point that i started to have plantar fasciitis. NO BALL WILL CROSS THE EQUATOR (service line) I tried so many ways to neutralize him but it was too much for my foot. Do you have any video about this kind of player THE SLICER DROPPER.... PLEASE LET ME KNOW... THANKS

[@robertclary1718]

Why does no one ever do a “how to be a better pusher” video. It’s like there’s only one legitimate way to play tennis.

[@ninemars5124]

To be honest I’d guess that it’s because it’s not a popular way to play. Not many people like being pushers.

[@dr.faustus9024]

Because learning pusher mechanics Will only ever make you An effective 3.5 player at most. It 's An effective style for limited players but with a very low ceiling.

[@DTwoHS]

There are less broad concepts and more specific defensive shots to think about, so it makes for not as good of a tennis instruction video - plus a lot of it is instinct and intuition anyway. Generally speaking, though, if you want to be a better pusher, I would 1) Get in really good shape, because you're going to hitting a lot of balls and running a lot of balls down, 2) Develop a good rally ball that's difficult for most opponents to attack, ie a loopy moonball or a low slice, 3) Have a go-to defensive play when the opponent approaches the net, ie a good lob, ball directed at their feet, normal pass if you can do it, etc. There's more, but like I said I'd have to get into specific situations and specific player types.

[@robertclary1718]

@@ninemars5124 i like it, and I win.

[@robertclary1718]

@@dr.faustus9024 but I'm been a 4.0 for years. Would probably be higher if we still had tournaments around here.

[@vedranfak2521]

Good video! However, I think you should have made a bigger point about how TopKnot's tactics were correct, he just wasn't able to execute. Imho, you spent too much time harping on the fact he was missing the final step, the final volley. All rec players need to know that errors in execution are preferable over errors in intention. The main takeaway for viewers should be that the approach TopKnot took was correct, even if it meant losing the match. So many players try going to the net, miss, and then avoid it for a lifetime. Sucking is a normal part of the improvement process. It's totally okay to suck at the net (at first, that is).

[@EssentialTennis]

Totally agree, Vedran! It's worth reiterating many times!

[@darthtau]

You're my favorite viewer Thank you for recognizing what I was doing -Topknot

[@darthtau]

@@tennnis498 it's like a really, really tough jigsaw puzzle. The second set was much closer, I almost figured him out. Great fun!

[@rafaellozada2544]

To play MEP you need good conditioning. A lot of those misses seemed to be "tired". Too tired to put it away effectively

[@info781]

Yep, most of us are sitting in front of a computer all week.

[@robertgrant6912]

When I play against this type of opponent, I find myself starting to play like them,. I become less aggressive , especially in my volleys. It is such a head game.

[@j.j.broerse9986]

i dont know about you guys but I play tennis because I want to have a fun time. Thats why I would never play MEP because I just dont see any fun in that. I get the training for those kind of players part but at this level just play to have fun. Dont even care about winning just be statisfied if you played your own game.

[@EssentialTennis]

Good to hear you've discovered what you enjoy most!

[@johnyang1420]

Man up and learn to play pushers.

[@j.j.broerse9986]

@@johnyang1420Hahah believe me I know how to play pushers. Because I dont care and just keep playing my own game.

[@j.j.broerse9986]

@@johnyang1420 The second you start thinking about playing different youre losing

[@JimBob-gf6fj]

Hey Ian I had a match today against a friend that I know I really should have won but I was serving like garbage and I just couldn't get a first serve in. I tried everything going for higher percentage targets, taking pace off, adding spin, even hitting 2 second serves but my first serve percentage was horrible around 30%. What do I do if this happens in a match it's a really common problem for me. Side note my technique is not the problem I have really good served in practice.

[@sportscastercanada]

Take a bunch of tennis 🎾 to the courts alone and just practice serving over and over. In many ways, it’s like the equivalent to basketball free throws. Practice a routine at the service line that you repeat. You need to hit thousands and thousands of serves to gain muscle memory. Do a first serve repeatedly till you miss, and then a second serve.

[@JimBob-gf6fj]

@@sportscastercanada I did that a lot and I actually have a really consistent and powerful serve most of the time but yesterday i just tried everything I could but I just couldn't get it in.

[@sportscastercanada]

@@JimBob-gf6fj Off day?! I would check your racket/strings for any defects. Record yourself when things are going well and compare to if something is off to try and see any differences. The serve is such a technical process from beginning to end.

[@transklutz]

I couldn't understand why he didn't hit his overhead like his serve! More practice at the net, topknot.

[@EssentialTennis]

🙏

[@thepeejmoses4343]

This video hits me right in the face because I’m top knot almost every match 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@EssentialTennis]

Hope it gave you some ideas!

[@agustin6541]

MEP vs. Ian. Most wanted match ever

[@EssentialTennis]

It's coming.

[@sportscastercanada]

Assuming Ian’s ankle is healed, MEP has to be a 10-1 dog to win 3 out of 5 sets! Otherwise, something is rotten in Denmark! 😆

[@vanlendl1]

Avoid rallies. Serve and volley and attack his serve. Or play short in the mddle.

[@stef4492]

I think Topknot needs to watch your "Secret to a killer net game" video... He is trying to punch the #%*! out that ball! I'm not poking fun, I was doing a lot of the same.... BEFORE I watched that video.

[@idontknow1919]

Whats mep tennis rating?

[@fsilber330]

This match destroys the claim that if you didn't win, you're not the better player. Certain types of players routinely beat opponents who are better than they are, and if you want to beat them it's not enough to be better than they are -- you have to be MUCH better than they are.

[@EssentialTennis]

I guess it depends on your definition of "better", fsilber. If by "better" you mean prettier technique and more well rounded game then you're right, it kills that claim. If your definition of "better" is who wins more points then the claim stands 100%. I personally use the second definition, not the first.

[@tomsd8656]

As with any opponent, you have to adapt and find ways to make the opponent uncomfortable. Why not throwing in underhand, underspin, "drop" serves every now and then, drawing MEP in. MEP's weakness is footwork. You don't need to overpower and make mistakes. His ball is slow enough to try drop shots, angle, anything to put MEP in uncomfortable position.

[@BrianMark75]

Everyone watching this has those routine, mundane errors... unless MEP watches this. 😂

[@EssentialTennis]

😆

[@JC-mf1mi]

I'm like TopKnot in Switzerland.

[@masterno123456789]

First To watch the video :)

[@EssentialTennis]

😆 Well played.

[@masterno123456789]

@@EssentialTennis thanks Ian 🙏

[@PaulBroni]

Apparently not. :( Maybe next time.

[@johndunn3492]

Topknot is not a bad player, but he can’t really volley very well. It’s hard to put pressure on someone at the net when your volleys are coming back at them so weak.

[@DuelingDragonsMusic]

MEP is the GOAT

[@dennisang5608]

Yes it happens. Maybe too anxious to kill and not enough anticipation?

[@pickleballbyjustin]

Even with the strategy, there is a huge mental part, for EVERYONE, watch Novak Djokovic "Self Mastery" series on Instagram, it will change your life

[@EssentialTennis]

💯

[@skitechniek4366]

Link?

[@pickleballbyjustin]

@@skitechniek4366 go on Novak Djokovic Instagram and go to his igtv part, scroll through and find the self Mastery live's, he has 7!

[@trevorabast]

Question for Ben. You obviously decided at some point to take match play seriously. What has factored into your decision to continue to play more unorthodox rather than pursue lessons to hit more "conventional" strokes? Was it simply that it was woking for you in regards to wins and losses? 👍

[@EssentialTennis]

Great question! I'll ask him when he's here 🙂

[@paddlepower888]

Ben had a serve lesson with Pete Freeman (Crunch Time Coaching) and displayed the results in some of his serves in this match against Topknot. Fun to watch

[@cldavis33]

@@paddlepower888 He did, and the match before that. And he had more pop on his serve too. After watching that lesson, I'm seeing a lot more guys at the club that have the pre-laid back takeback, I've been keeping my racket head up, more, combined with that sock drill Ian showed a while back, and I'm getting some SMOOTH power coming off a more relaxed stroke. Feels like I'm actually cheating, LOL.

[@DuncanBurke]

Yup. Finishing the point after wonderfully executing its set up haunts my game to no end. Im more an instinctive player which is probably why in some respects I’m better suited to doubles. people say I’m a great volleyer b/c... BH lunge half-volley drop shot winner - np! sitter FH volley... it’s like there’s just too much time. I hear it taunting me as I move in- go ahead, show us all how you can suddenly completely break down, revealing how horrible a tennis player you really are. Feet stop moving, volley turns into a fly swatting motion, the almost impossible angle reached by finding the bottom of the net from within touching distance. Then the shame... deep shame replaces any sense of earned respect and confidence that would have otherwise certainly been the result of having successfully put away the easiest ball of the point, the shot awarded for the previous effort and solid play, all culminates in an inglorious display and gift to your opponent.

[@tim1778]

Ha , yep I relate to this when I have worked a point for an easy sitter.

[@StevePPham]

We want to see Ian vs Mep

[@EssentialTennis]

It's coming!

[@andyhung424able]

Blowing the winning volleys or just dumping mid-court put-away shots to the net isn't something unique for TopKnot playing against MEP. This is so common that people can't hit those shots (myself included) because players simply don't practice them enough. And that just means that TopKnot isn't a good enough player against MEP, or me ain't good enough against anybody at all. I'm being nitpicky here, but players aren't just missing those shots for "no reason at all". There is a reason and that is not having good enough or consistent enough volleys and/or approach shots. All of us need to practice more of these shots rather than only focusing on groundstrokes.

[@benjaminchen4367]

Hmmm I think green shirt is a better nickname Altho mep is less generic

[@dragunovx93]

anyone who chooses the "outlast the pusher" option? yeah i'll buy them some therapy sessions because they've lost it.

[@Jerry-ew1bp]

I played a French MEP yesterday and I lost.. I should have watched this video before

[@sammuthu1]

TopKnot's volleying let him down. Even though he has good ground strokes, his volleying needs some work.

[@eliphelps2358]

How does MEP grind it out like this and stay healthy? You'd think this much scrambling as a 30+ man would do a number on your joints.

[@EssentialTennis]

Interesting question. I'll ask him when he's here!

[@eliphelps2358]

Thanks so much!

[@andrewlee5853]

Good point. All that running on hard courts has to be tough on back and knees.