The one word that a player doesn't want to hear before going into a big match. Unfortunately, many pros and weekend players have some sort of injury when they go out to play. Lindsay Davenport made a strong effort today in her three set loss to Dominique Van Roost, and in spite of her injured back, she was in the match until the very end. Frequently, players find that their level of play is higher when playing hurt. Often the injury forces them to be more sound mechanically to avoid the pain that comes from being off balance or overhitting.
Players are kinder to themselves in accepting their errors.
There is a tendency to play within themselves, which is the best way to play. Remember, if you have an injury that you can play with, get out there and make your best effort. Elite athletes will often visualize themselves playing the match in just the way the want to play. Physically, they make sure to stay relaxed, by stretching, jogging, or getting on a bike or a treadmill. They definitely don't wear themselves out, yet they want to be physically awake.