The Best & Recommended Books on the Mental Game of Tennis

The Best Books on the Mental Game of Tennis: My Top Picks

Mastering the mental side of tennis is just as important as perfecting your forehand or improving your footwork. Whether you're a competitive player looking for an edge, a coach helping students develop mental resilience, or a tennis parent supporting a young athlete, the right book can be a game-changer. Over the years, I’ve read countless books on the mental game, and some have stood out as essential reads. Here are my top recommendations, divided into categories to help you find the best fit for your needs.

Classic Must-Reads on Tennis Psychology

"The Inner Game of Tennis" – W. Timothy Gallwey
This is the book that started it all. Gallwey breaks down the mental battles players face on the court and offers timeless insights on staying focused, letting go of self-judgment, and playing in the zone. If you haven’t read this yet, start here.

"Winning Ugly" – Brad Gilbert
While not strictly about the mental game, this book is packed with tactical advice on how to outthink opponents. Gilbert’s scrappy, psychological approach to winning is invaluable, especially for players who might not have the biggest weapons but want to maximize their mental toughness.

Books for Junior Players and Their Parents

"The Best Tennis of Your Life" – Jeff Greenwald
A fantastic, easy-to-digest book with 50 mental tips designed to help players handle nerves, stay confident, and compete at their best. Perfect for junior players who need actionable strategies.

"Pressure is a Privilege" – Billie Jean King
This book is part memoir, part life advice from a true tennis legend. King’s perspective on handling pressure and using it to fuel success is incredibly valuable, especially for young players facing high expectations.

Books Focused on Mental Strength and Resilience

"Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" – Carol S. Dweck
While not tennis-specific, this book is a must-read for understanding how a growth mindset can impact performance. Essential for players struggling with confidence and self-belief.

"The Champion’s Mind" – Jim Afremow
This book provides a deep dive into what separates elite athletes from the rest. It’s full of practical advice on visualization, motivation, and handling adversity, making it a great tool for serious competitors.

Books on Visualization and Mental Preparation

"With Winning in Mind" – Lanny Bassham
Written by an Olympic gold medalist, this book focuses on mental training techniques used by top athletes. The concepts apply perfectly to tennis, especially for players looking to improve their focus and visualization skills.

"Tennis: Winning the Mental Match" – Allen Fox
A practical guide from a sports psychologist and former pro. Fox’s advice on handling pressure, bouncing back from losses, and managing emotions during a match is gold for any competitive player.

Hidden Gems and Underrated Reads

"The Fearless Mind" – Craig Manning
This book explores how to train your brain for peak performance. Manning’s strategies for overcoming fear and self-doubt make it a great addition to any player’s mental game toolkit.

"Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" – Angela Duckworth
Another non-tennis-specific book, but absolutely relevant. Duckworth’s research on perseverance and mental toughness is eye-opening and incredibly useful for tennis players who struggle with staying motivated during tough times.

Final Thoughts

Reading about the mental side of tennis is one of the best ways to improve without even stepping on the court. Each of these books offers valuable insights that can help players develop confidence, focus, and resilience. If you’re serious about mastering the mental game, pick a few from this list and start applying their lessons to your matches.

Have you read any of these books?

Are there others that have helped you strengthen your mental game?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations!

Keep a positive attitude!

Danny [TennisMental.com]