Winning Ugly

by Brad Gilbert
Winning Ugly cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Sports Fiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 9848
  • Added: 2026-01-03
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9780671884000
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 1994-05-31
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Brad Gilbert, renowned for his mental prowess in tennis, shares his unique approach to winning matches without relying on perfect technique. His 'ugly' game focuses on outthinking opponents, capitalizing on key moments, and forcing them to play your game. Gilbert's advice includes identifying hidden ad points, understanding when not to serve first, and strategies for beating different types of players./n/nWinning Ugly is more than just a tennis guide; it's a combat manual for the court. Gilbert's tips, praised by Tennis magazine, help players beat those who have consistently beaten them by focusing on the mental aspects of the game. Whether you're a recreational player or looking to up your game, this book offers invaluable insights to improve your performance and strategy.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2026-01-03
practical 4.20

The book is filled with simple yet excellent advice for club players and tips from the pros that can make a difference in tournament matches. It's highly recommended for its practical and insightful content.

This Goodreads review highlights the book's simple yet excellent advice for club players, as well as tips from professional players that can make a significant difference in tournament matches. The reviewer finds the book highly practical and insightful, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their tennis game. The emphasis on mental warfare and smart play is particularly appreciated, with the reviewer noting that the book's advice is both relatable and effective. The overall sentiment is positive, with the reviewer recommending the book to a wide audience of tennis enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    Brad Gilbert's book contains simple but excellent advice for club players and tips from the pros that can make a difference in tournament matches.

    I found the book highly practical and insightful.

    The emphasis on mental warfare and smart play is particularly appreciated.

Reddit - r/10s · 2026-01-03
practical 4.00

The book is praised for its straightforward lesson: observe what happens on the court and adapt strategies accordingly. It's seen as a valuable resource for understanding the practical aspects of the game.

In this review, the focus is on how 'Winning Ugly' delivers a clear and impactful lesson: paying attention to what works and what doesn't on the court. The reviewer appreciates the book's practical approach, suggesting it's a great resource for anyone looking to understand the nuances of tennis strategy. The emphasis on observation and adaptation is highlighted as a key takeaway, making the book a valuable read for players at all levels. The reviewer finds the book's message both straightforward and insightful, particularly in the context of mental warfare in tennis.

Quick quotes

    Winning Ugly is really good because it hammers one lesson. Watch what happens on the court. Figure out what works and figure out what doesn't work.

    It's a valuable resource for understanding the practical aspects of the game.

    The emphasis on observation and adaptation is highlighted as a key takeaway.

Get Better at Tennis · 2023-06-27
insightful 4.50

The book emphasizes the importance of mental strategies and smart play, highlighting chapters on gaining an early edge, playing smart, and mind games. It's praised for its practical advice and engaging stories.

This review highlights how 'Winning Ugly' focuses on mental strategies and smart play in tennis. The reviewer particularly appreciates the chapters on gaining an early edge, playing smart, and mind games, finding them packed with practical advice. The book is also noted for its engaging stories and relatable anecdotes, making it a valuable read for anyone looking to improve their game. The reviewer suggests that the book's core message—victory often comes from strategy rather than perfect strokes—is brilliantly captured and well-articulated.

Quick quotes

    I think the three chapters in this book really are the early edge, playing smart and mind games.

    The "winning ugly" concept just means to not try to do everything perfectly and gracefully.

    Victory in tennis often comes not from beautiful strokes, but from smart strategies.

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