Tip: Pick the Right Doubles Partner

It used to be said that the best doubles team in the world was John McEnroe and anybody else. While we can’t all play alongside a ringer, we do have some say in our selection of a partner, and that’s the first step toward playing good doubles. I feel that the best doubles sidekick is one who complements you. For example, if you’re an extrovert, try to find a more introverted partner. Or vice versa. Your differences in personality will even out your moods on the court and prevent you from getting too excited or too withdrawn. But this doesn’t just apply to your personalities. Combining players with different playing styles—for example, a steady player with a flashier one, or a right-hander with a left-hander— also works well.