choking in sports

Performing Well Under Pressure

High Pressure Games

Keep Focus and Stay in the Moment What causes choking? Why do some athletes choke while other athletes rise to the occasion? No athlete likes to hear the word “choking,” let alone admit it. Yet, some athletes believe they “always choke” when the pressure is on. Choking is rooted in three sources: 1. Self-talk –

Performance Anxiety in Big Competitions

Sports Psychology Podcast

In this week’s sports psychology podcast, mental game of sports expert, Dr. Patrick Cohn, answers a question from an athlete who experiences performance anxiety in big competitions because he compares himself to the competition. Dr. Cohn shares mental game strategies on how to focus on your game to feel confident and composed. Listen to this

Did Nadal Choke at Wimbledon? The Anatomy of Choking

Nadal Choking

Rafael Nadal, the number two-ranked player in the world, is known for his mental toughness on the men’s tennis circuit. He’s won countless tournaments on his aggressive style of play and mental toughness including the 2011 French Open. But last week, Djokovic defeated Nadal 6-4, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 in the 2011 Wimbledon final. Did Nadal