Approaching the Backhand: The Second Most Effective Strategy in Tennis
One of the game’s most proven tactics: attack the backhand side, keep it low and deep, then close the net fast to finish with placement over power.
Key Points
Second Most Effective Strategy in Tennis
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Behind serve and volley, approaching the backhand is statistically the second most successful tactic
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Especially effective against two-handed backhands, which have less reach, power, and spin
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When to Use It
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Best used when opponent has recovered to the center
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If you’ve built the point to their backhand corner, it’s a green light
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Only approach the forehand if the opponent is off-balance or hasn’t recovered position
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Execution Tips
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Hit approach low and deep to the backhand
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Focus on placement over power
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Look to close the net quickly and finish with a short angle volley
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If you can’t attack deep, half-volley low and cross into the open court
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Defensive Insight – When You’re Being Attacked
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Best counter is to hit the first passing shot at the attacker’s feet
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This forces a difficult volley and gives you a better chance to pass or lob on the second shot
Don’t try to hit an outright winner immediately — set it up
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