Tennis Tactics

Attack the Short Ball

Tennis drill for tactics training sessions

Tactical drill training players to recognise and aggressively attack short balls.

25 minDuration
2 playersGroup size
AdvancedDifficulty
Full courtSpace needed
Balls, racketsEquipment

What This Drill Improves

This tennis drill is best for advanced players who need focused work on tactics. It works well with 2 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.

Setup

Both players rallying from baseline. Feeder occasionally drops a short ball.

Instructions

  1. Rally neutrally crosscourt.
  2. When a short ball arrives (inside service line), player must attack.
  3. Options: approach + volley, or DTL winner.
  4. Defender tries to pass or lob.

Coaching Points

✓ Attack early — don't wait for it to come to you.
✓ DTL is the higher-risk option — use it when dominant.
✓ Transition shot: pace + depth + direction.

Common Mistakes to Watch For

  • Players losing focus on the main coaching point.
  • The drill area being too large or too small for the group.
  • Progressing the drill before the basic pattern is clean.

Progressions: Make It Harder

→ Short ball is called aloud by feeder before hitting.
→ Player must decide in 0.5 seconds.
→ Live points after the attack shot.

Regressions: Make It Easier

Reduce the number of defenders or make pressure passive for the first few rounds.
Increase the playing space so players have more time to make decisions.

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attack short ball tactics advanced
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