In our ‘Training tips’ series, Aleksandar Vukic reflects on his biggest lessons and recalls his most “nerve-racking” practice session.
Melbourne, Australia, 3 March 2023 | Leigh Rogers
The hard-working Aleksandar Vukic is proving patience can deliver results.
The 26-year-old from Sydney honed his game playing US college tennis and has quickly made an impact on the world stage since turning professional. Vukic achieved a career-high ranking of No.117 last season and qualified at this year’s Australian Open.
Vukic shares an insight into his practice routines and most memorable training experiences in our Training tips series …
TA: What is your favourite time of the day to train?
Vukic: Probably around noon. I like to do two hours of practice straight, then get out of there. If you’re hanging around for two one-hour hits, then you spend half your time warming up. It’s more productive to practice in two-hour blocks.
How many hours a week, on average, do you a practice?
You don’t want to be doing too much during a tournament. The work should be already done, you just want to be getting used to the courts. When not at a tournament, I do two-to-three hours minimum on court a day. It depends though on the time of the season and what your body needs. You’re also spending that same amount of time working off court, whether that is fitness, psychological or analysing your game. It’s not just on the court where you have to work.
Do you spend much time analysing your performances?
Recently I have been more, but I also try not to overanalyse. It’s good to see a few things and make some notes, but you don’t want to overthink it as well.
What is your favourite part of a practice session?
Just playing points to be honest. I think drilling is good for like two days, then you get sick of it. It can get very monotonous.
What is your least favourite part of a practice session?
Working on my volleys. That one is more of a grudge. I love working more on my forehand and serve. If there is ever a time just to rip balls, call me for sure.
How important is it to balance working on both strengths and weaknesses on the practice court?
I think you need to do both. But what wins you matches is your strengths, so you probably want to be working more on that than your weaknesses.
Do you remember your first practice session with a professional player?
I remember getting called up a few times to hit with Lleyton (Hewitt) when…
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