Backhand Transition Approach Shots

Key Points

• Purpose of the Low Backhand Transition: A critical shot in your arsenal, it allows you to transition effectively to the net while limiting your opponent's passing options.
• General Strategy: Use the low slice backhand to approach cross court about 80% of the time, targeting your opponent’s backhand to reduce their ability to generate power or heavy spin.
• Approach Based on Court Position: From the Middle or Slightly Off-Center: Slice cross court to keep the ball low, forcing your opponent to lift their shot, which sets you up to cover the net. When Pulled Wide: Go down the line with the backhand approach. This minimizes your recovery distance and improves your chances of covering the net effectively.
• Advantages of the Low Slice: Forces the opponent to hit up on the ball, reducing their ability to attack. Limits their passing options: most players will go cross court because the net is higher down the line.
• Shot Variations Based on Height: Higher Balls: Use a two-handed backhand to hit cross court and close into the net. Lower Balls: Slice cross court or down the line, depending on court position, to maintain control and set up for volleys.
• Anticipation and Net Coverage: Anticipate cross-court passing shots due to the low ball trajectory and the difficulty of going down the line. Position yourself to cover either a forehand or backhand volley effectively based on your approach.
• Testing Opponent’s Backhand: This strategy effectively tests your opponent’s ability to hit backhand passing shots, allowing you to exploit weaknesses and dominate at the net.
• Key Decision Rule: Always adjust your approach shot direction based on where you are on the court. If pulled wide, go down the line; if closer to the middle, slice cross court to maintain better positioning.