When an opponent 'touches a nerve' with angry antics I am sure that interferes with your head. Normally if you perform on court it is distracting to both players, but I believe you can allow your opponent's "circus act" to destroy your game in many negative ways,eg  putting the fire out, taking away your motivation, get to your head, remind you of something horrible in your life, whichever does not matter.  What matters this "carrying on" opponent then can upset you, and turn the results around to win.  I hate that.

How to overcome this?  Play more competitive matches, more tournaments, train to concentrate on what you are doing, eg no talking, and fooling about, keep going when you feel tired, find ways to occupy your mind while the opponent is trying to upset you, eg make them wait for you after an outburst, take your time, bounce the ball, turn your back.  Learn to do this without losing your motivation and determination.  I know, often you feel like just shaking hands and walking off the court.

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