How To Counter-Attack Effectively In Tennis
Counter-attacking is a technique used by players who are on the defensive in order to turn the tables on their opponents. It involves making use of the pace of your opponent’s shot and returning it with added power and accuracy. This tactic is used to catch your opponent off guard and put them on the back foot. It also allows you to gain control of the point and dictate play. We look at how you can counter-attack effectively.
Focus On Footwork
Counter-attacking requires quick footwork so that you can reach the ball in time and transition smoothly from defence to offense. Working on drills such as running around cones or practicing jumping rope can help improve your foot speed and agility. Having fast feet will give you the extra time needed to get into position to set up a powerful return.
Use Topspin
You will need to use topspin to counter-attack effectively. Topspin causes the ball to kick up high after landing on the court, which makes it harder for your opponent to return the shot. This puts them on their heels, giving you an opportunity to take control of the point. Utilising topspin properly allows you to maintain control even when attacking, giving you more options for how to handle a difficult situation on court.
Anticipate
Counter-attacking should be used when you are able to anticipate your opponent’s next shot. This gives you that extra time to move into position and set up for an aggressive shot of your own. Having that split-second extra to react gives you an edge over your opponent as you will be able to put pressure on them by returning with power and accuracy. This anticipation is usually acquired through experience and practice, as it involves reading your opponent’s body language, understanding their styles of play and recognising their tendencies.
Wait For The Right Opportunity
Sometimes it may be tempting to go on the offensive right away after receiving your opponent’s shot, but this will usually result in you hitting the ball long or into the net. Instead of rushing into a counter attack, take some time and wait for an opening before going all-in with your return shot. Being patient and waiting for the right opportunity will give you better chances of success in counter-attacking.
When executed correctly, counter-attacking can be very effective as it surprises your opponent and gives you control over the point. However, if you misread your opponent’s shot or execute poorly, then you will most likely lose the point as you were already on the defensive. Remember to have the proper footwork, use topspin, and most importantly, anticipate your opponent’s shots in order to turn defence into attack.
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About The Author
Darren Teo is the founder of Play! Tennis, the most Google reviewed tennis academy in Singapore. His passion for making tennis accessible to everyone regardless of their age, experience and ability continues to drive his work at the school. He is a thought leader in LinkedIn with 14,000 followers.