Baseline
Baseline tactics
Most points are decided in baseline rallies. The winner is whoever misses less and knows when to accelerate.
Principles
- 1
Crosscourt is the safe default
The net is lower in the middle and the diagonal is longer. That is why the crosscourt ball has more margin and is the basis of a consistent rally.
- 2
Down the line changes direction
Go down the line when the ball is shorter and comfortable, ideally hit from inside the court, or when the court is open.
- 3
Net clearance is margin
Clearing the net by 1 to 2 meters with topspin gives depth and fewer errors. Balls that skim the net are for when you are attacking.
- 4
Attack the weaker shot
Run around your backhand to hit an inside-out forehand to your opponent's weak side. And if their weak side is the forehand, change the pattern.
- 5
Always recover
After each shot, return near the center, shifted slightly toward the side you hit to, and split-step as your opponent hits.
Example situations
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Baseline · Beginner
Backhand rally
Baseline rally. Your opponent sends a deep crosscourt ball with medium pace to your backhand. You are behind the baseline.
| Score | Games | Points |
|---|---|---|
| You | 2 | 0 |
| Opponent | 3 | 15 |
- Surface:
- Hard court
- Opponent style:
- Consistent baseliner
Baseline · Intermediate
Time to change direction
Crosscourt backhand rally. This time your opponent's ball lands shorter, at waist height, and you can hit from inside the court. They are in their backhand corner.
| Score | Games | Points |
|---|---|---|
| You | 5 | 15 |
| Opponent | 4 | 15 |
- Surface:
- Hard court
- Opponent style:
- Consistent baseliner