Player Corner: Roni Hietaranta - "Winning can be learned, but it’s not easy"
In our new article series, we dive into the world of tennis with coaches and players to uncover the secrets of the sport’s appeal and what it takes to win. Take note of the insights, and get out there and play!
Finnish Roni Hietaranta, college graduate from Nebraska, shares his thoughts on the topic.
Why and how you got interested in tennis?
My grandfather has always played tennis, and he was the one who introduced me to tennis when I was 4 years old. I started out just watching him play and hitting a few balls with him, but I fell in love with it very quickly. I was drawn to how tennis combines athleticism with the tactical side of the game, you’re not just running around as you constantly need to think and adapt to different situations. What really got me hooked was knowing that it’s all on you. There’s no team to hide behind. In tennis, you’re responsible for everything, the mistakes, the losses, the wins. That combination of accountability and challenge excited me from the beginning, even at a young age, and it’s kept me motivated ever since.
How would you describe the ingredients/feeling of good playing?
When I’m playing well, it feels like everything is clicking with the game as I move instinctively, my decisions feel automatic, and it’s like I’m always one step ahead of the ball. The ball feels clean on my strings almost every time I make contact, and I’m not second-guessing my decisions or shot selections. I trust my instincts and just go for it without hesitating. When I’m playing good, I feel calm but energized, I feel locked in, totally present, and confident in all my decisions. That’s when tennis feels most natural, when I’m not just staying in the rally, but dictating the points. I’m playing a game where the odds are in my favor.
Tennis is a game, how do you win; can it be learned?
Winning in tennis is about competing and finding a way to win that day, no matter how you’re playing. It’s about adapting to the situation, changing your strategy, recognizing certain patterns from your opponent, and being confident under pressure. Winning can be learned, but it’s not easy. Confidence under pressure is key, especially during big points because tennis is a game of small margins. The more you play, the more you learn how to problem-solve, stay mentally tough, and trust yourself in any situation.
Three tips to win matches?
1. Compete and find a way to win that day: Winning isn’t always about playing your best tennis, it’s about competing and figuring out how to win with what you have that day. In some matches you need to grind more, in some matches you may need to play more aggressive so adapting is key.
2. Create a game where the odds are in your favor: Play to your strengths and try to build points in a way that gives you the advantage more often than the opponent.
3. Be patient and consistent: You don’t need to hit a winner every point. Focus on making balls, limiting unforced errors, and staying patient. Usually, the player who make fewer mistakes ends up winning.