Backhand - 8.Returning deep high ground strokes

Take from Sportsinteractive

Returning deep high ground strokes; the ones that land on the baseline

First and foremost; it is easier to run forward than backward, understanding this means it's OK to play close to the baseline. But not the whole time 1, 2, or 3 feet inside the court. As when they do hit it deep, it's to hard to run back and hit the ball at the same time. Your playing to close in if your letting some GO and they still land in.

Second, anticipation is the key to being in the proper place on the court most of the time. What type of shot and where will they hit it are things you can't buy from any tennis Pro. You must go and play enough and experience enough, to imagine where your opponent will probably hit the ball. Then start going there, even if they haven't hit the ball yet.

Next, learn the rising ball shot; taking the ball right after the bounce. This prevents the ball from getting to high on you in the first place. It may still land deep, but if you always run back to hit the ball that's close to the back fence, your giving up to much court in front of you to your opponent. Playing the ball as a half-volley form the baseline, you won't be giving as much court away. You can still hit the ball low, fast, and far with the rising ball technique, and not pop it up.

High deep shots are are tough on you, so don't let it get up there. Catch it off the bounce.

Tip of the Month
sportsinteractive--Walt.
Feel free to contact Walt @ Tennis Time with any questions you have about instructional tennis. He will be more than willing to help you. Walt's e-mail - tentime@aol.com
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