Used in training by Rodrigo Ovide, this mental drill puts players under constant pressure in every rally.
Each unforced error is immediately punished by moving the opponents straight to 40 on the scoreboard, giving them a direct opportunity to win the game. As a result, players must stay highly focused and play with more margin in their shots, avoiding unforced errors at all costs.
Description
Two pairs position themselves on the court in their usual roles.
The players play a set with the following rule: any pair that commits an unforced error immediately gives the opposing pair 40 on the scoreboard.
If both pairs commit an unforced error in the same game, the score becomes 40–40, and a golden point (no advantage) is played to decide the game.
An unforced error is defined as a mistake made on a ball that is not particularly difficult to play (generally any ball except finishing shots, powerful smashes, and other highly aggressive shots).
This rule encourages players to reduce risk, play with more margin on every shot, and slightly lower the pace, in order to avoid unforced errors at all costs.