Tips for winning at tennis: How to beat an opponent on the volley

Volleying is an offensive strategy that allows opponents to shorten exchanges and take control of points by getting closer to the net. Here’s why some players prefer this approach:

Put pressure on: Going up to the net forces the opponent to react quickly and take risks by passing or lobbing.

Reduce your opponent’s options: Players on the volley shorten their opponent’s reaction time, which limits their strategic choices.

Although the volley can be very effective, it also has weaknesses that you can exploit:

• Vulnerability to passing shots: Volley players are often vulnerable to well-placed passing shots.
• Difficulty with lobs: A well-executed lob forces the opponent to step back, disrupting his rhythm and positioning.

1. Use crossing and long passing shots

The passing shot is one of the most effective weapons for countering a player on the volley. It’s a shot designed to get past an opponent who’s coming up to the net. Here’s how to use it:

• Criss-cross: Send the ball from a criss-cross angle, away from the reach of the player at the net.
• Long line: Alternate with shots along the line to keep your opponent moving and prevent him from guessing where you’re going to hit.

2. Mastering the lob

The lob is another crucial shot for thwarting a player on the volley. It forces your opponent to step back and puts him in an uncomfortable position:

• High and deep lob: To be effective, the lob must be hit high and land close to the baseline. This prevents the opponent from smashing easily.
• Vary between lobs and passing shots: Alternate between lobs and passing shots to surprise your opponent and prevent him from adjusting to your game.

3. Play with more control and patience

It’s important to stay calm and not rush when your opponent comes to the net:

• Slow down your game: Try to play slower shots and control the tempo of exchanges. By slowing down your game, you’ll have more time to find angles and open spaces.
• Focus on consistency: Don’t take too many risks with powerful shots. Concentrate on regular, well-placed shots to exhaust your opponent and encourage him to make mistakes.

One of the most common mistakes is always trying to hit hard to get your opponent over the net:

• Mistake: Forcing your shots can lead to unforced errors or easy-to-steal balls for your opponent.
• Solution: Alternate between power and precise placement. A well-placed shot is often more effective than a poorly-directed power shot.

A player on the fly is often comfortable with a constant rhythm. So it’s essential to vary your game:

• Mistake: Playing balls always at the same height or at the same pace makes it easier for the volleyer.
• Solution: Alternate between fast, slice, high and slow balls to confuse the volleyer’s anticipation.

A player on the volley takes advantage of short balls to come up to the net and attack:

• Mistake: Giving away too many short or badly hit balls allows your opponent to get to the net with ease.
• Solution: Concentrate on deep shots that force your opponent to stay at the back of the court.