If you’ve taken a tennis lesson or drill, you’ve probably heard the phrase, “Keep your eye on the ball!” often. That seems like good advice because you DO need to know where the ball is at all times, right? Of course! But in doubles tennis, you must also know where your opponents are at all times.
I used to be that player who always kept my eye on the ball. When I was up at net, I’d track the ball all the way back to my partner at the baseline. And by the time I turned back around to face my opponents, I had no idea what was going on. Needless to say, the point usually ended with me flailing my racquet at the incoming ball and missing… all because I wasn’t prepared.
Over the years, I learned to watch my opponents when they were up at the net—especially the player at the net. That helped us win more points and, ultimately, more matches!
Knowing where the ball AND your opponents are will tell you where to go on the court. And if you don’t know where your opponents are, how will you know whether to attack or defend?
Doubles Tennis Scenarios When Up At Net
- The ball is hit deep to your partner at the baseline and you see your opponents rush the net. You already know the ball is deep, so you don’t need to look back and watch it. You need to back up and play defensively.
- The ball is hit deep to your partner at the baseline. This time, your opponents either stay where they are or take a few steps back. Obviously, your partner is getting ready to hit an aggressive shot so you should stay at the net and keep your attack position. And if she flubs the shot, you’ll know immediately when you see the opponents start rushing in, which is your cue to start moving back.
- The ball is hit deep to your partner at the baseline, and you see both opponents start hustling back to their baseline. You know by their reaction that your partner is probably getting ready to put up a lob. In this instance, you should take a step or two back and be ready to attack a possible short return.
- When you see your opponents move laterally for a wide shot, don’t just stand there and watch. Mirror their movement and take a step or two closer to your alley so you can cover the line and middle. This will force them to go for a passing shot or lob, so be ready for either one.
I’m not saying to never look back at your partner when they’re receiving the ball. Sometimes, you’ll have time for a quick peek, especially if the ball is a high, deep lob. Pay attention to how she handles the return:
- will your partner’s racquet go down and back for a lob return?
- will your partner let it bounce and take it on the rise for an aggressive forehand return?
- will your partner step in and take it out of the air with an overhead?
Just look quick enough to gauge how they will return the ball. This will give you time to turn back and see what your opponents are doing and help you determine where to go next on the court.
In doubles tennis, it’s important to keep an eye on your opponents while up at net. Their reactions will tell you where you should go while the ball travels to your partner. Looking back at your partner while she hits the ball and ignoring the opponents can get you in trouble at the net. This is a hard habit to break, but trust me, once you do, you will be amazed at how much better you play!
