Key Takeaways
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Tamara Icardo, ranked World No. 9, demonstrates her forehand volley technique
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Coaching session highlights grip, shoulder rotation, and footwork adjustments
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Tie-break match tests improvements against a Premier Padel player
Learning from a world-class player
Facing Tamara Icardo, one of the top players in the world, is both a challenge and an opportunity. She began by breaking down her strongest shot—the forehand volley—explaining how grip, shoulder positioning, and footwork combine to make it effective.
Technical advice and adjustments
Tamara emphasized the importance of preparation and timing: “The most important thing is to be close to the ball, rotate the shoulders, and make the impact coincide with the step,” she explained. She also noted that when the ball comes fast, the volley must be played more statically, while slower balls require moving forward to generate power.
During the coaching session, she analyzed my volley and suggested improvements, particularly in using the non-dominant hand for balance and rotation. “You need more practice entering and exiting the net, but I liked your shoulder turn and the attempt to step through the shot,” Tamara advised.
Rally practice and grip discussion
In rally exchanges, Tamara highlighted the importance of small steps to approach the ball rather than stretching for it. She also explained her grip preference, slightly shifted from the standard continental, which gives her more control and feel on volleys.
The tie-break challenge
The session culminated in a tie-break against Tamara. Despite moments of good play, her precision and consistency exposed weaknesses in my defensive style. The match illustrated how even small technical adjustments can make a difference, but also how difficult it is to compete against a top-ranked professional.
Final reflections
Tamara concluded by sharing her preference for a racket with a teardrop-diamond shape and medium-high balance, which helps her in overhead shots. Her insights provided valuable lessons not only in technique but also in mindset. Facing her in a tie-break was a reminder of the gap between club-level players and elite professionals, but also an inspiring experience that showed how coaching can elevate performance.
Triay and Brea in London, ranking, and results in 2026
LWWLWWWWWW Triay and Brea have achieved a win-loss 44-9 record together in 2026. They are currently playing the London P1 2026 where they knocked out Rufo(world no.27) and Iglesias(world no.20) 3-6 6-2 6-2.
