Tennis Tactics

Attack the Short Ball

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

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

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.

Progressions

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

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