Patient Penny
A disciplined, consistent, and strategic player who will keep the ball in play and force you to work for every point. This opponent doesn’t take big risks but plays with great patience, using smart shot placement and consistency to wear opponents down.
Strengths
Highly Consistent – Makes very few errors and keeps rallies going.
Great Court Awareness – Hits into big spaces and controls the tempo.
Mentally Tough – Stays focused and composed, no matter the situation.
Tactically Sound – Plays smart, high-percentage tennis and rarely takes unnecessary risks.
Weaknesses
Rarely Takes Risks – Doesn’t go for extreme angles, disguised shots, or sudden attacks.
Predictable Play Style – Can be figured out over time if you pay attention to their patterns.
Struggles When Rushed – May not handle pace well if put under pressure.
Not Aggressive at the Net – Usually prefers to stay back and rally.
How to play against Patient Penny?
Study Their Patterns and Be Patient
Watch how they play in warm-ups or earlier matches.
Identify their favourite shots and rally patterns – knowing what they like can help you disrupt them. Expect long rallies and be mentally prepared to work for every point.
Take Control and Attack Smartly
Wait for the right ball – Don’t rush, when you see an opportunity, take control of the point.
Look for short balls and come forward when possible – they won’t hit extreme angles to push you wide. Take time away from them by stepping inside the baseline when appropriate.
Use Variety to Disrupt Them
If you only rally from the baseline, you’re playing into their strength. Mix up your play: Use drop shots, slice, and net approaches to force them into uncomfortable positions.
Try standing in on returns or stepping back, depending on their serve patterns.
Stay Mentally Strong
Don’t get frustrated by their patience – they want you to make mistakes. Keep your focus and trust your game plan.
Accept that they won’t give you free points, so stay disciplined and play smart tennis.
Find out more about handling your opponent in our Competitions area
Practice Drills to Prepare
Controlled Patience
Play points aiming to only hit central, consistent shots.
The goal: Move them around, be patient, and wait for the right moment to attack.
Disruptive Play
The teacher or partner plays like Patient Penny (consistent, no risks).
Use different shots (drop shots, high balls, slice) to practice disrupting their rhythm.
Net Attack Challenge
Play a rally, hitting deep shots, and work on recognizing a short ball to move in.
Work on executing deep approach shots and putting away volleys to finish points early.
