Approach
Short balls and approaching the net
A short ball is the invitation to leave the baseline. A good approach does not need to win the point alone: it needs to be deep and put you in a good net position.
Principles
- 1
Short balls are for attacking
Backing off a short ball wastes the opportunity. Step into the court and use your best shot.
- 2
Approach deep, preferably down the line
Down the line shortens your path to the net. But depth is what matters: a short approach gives your opponent angles to pass.
- 3
Low balls call for slice
You cannot hit hard upward from a ball below the net. A deep slice stays low and makes passing harder.
- 4
Follow the line of the ball
At the net, position yourself in the middle of the passing angles, following the direction of your approach, and split-step as your opponent hits.
- 5
Smart exceptions
If your opponent passes very well on one side, approach to the other. Against someone who passes well on both sides, approaching down the middle takes away the angles.
Example situations
Pick the shot you would play. No sign-up needed.
Approach · Beginner
Where to go at the net
You attacked a short ball with a down-the-line forehand, deep to your opponent's backhand, and you are coming to the net.
| Score | Games | Points |
|---|---|---|
| You | 4 | 30 |
| Opponent | 3 | 15 |
- Surface:
- Hard court
- Opponent style:
- Consistent baseliner
Approach · Intermediate
Low short ball to the backhand
Your opponent sends a short, low ball that will bounce below net height near the service line, on your backhand. You are running forward.
| Score | Games | Points |
|---|---|---|
| You | 2 | 15 |
| Opponent | 1 | 30 |
- Surface:
- Grass
- Opponent style:
- Consistent baseliner