Winning Patterns & Smart Percentage Tennis

Key Points

• Inside-Out vs Inside-In Forehand:
  Inside-out is safer and higher percentage.Inside-in should only be used when well positioned, or you risk losing control of the rally.
• ​​Start with Your Strengths & Patterns:
  Every player has a preferred style or “Plan A, B, or C”.Early in matches, use consistent crosscourt rallies to find rhythm before changing direction.
• Three Common Patterns:
  Crosscourt–Crosscourt–Down the Line: Build the rally then change direction.Crosscourt–Down the Line Early: More aggressive; used to catch opponents off guard.Down the Line Immediately: High risk; effective if timed perfectly but lower percentage.
• Percentage Tennis Philosophy:
  Safer to go crosscourt due to net height and court geometry.Late contact on a crosscourt shot still keeps the ball in play; down-the-line risks errors.
• Adapting to Opponent’s Weakness:
  Direct shots (serve + 1, return + 1) to opponent’s weaker side (e.g., backhand).Use patterns like inside-out to pressure the weaker wing repeatedly.
• Breaking Opponent Rhythm:
  If they get into a groove, change pace or height: use high balls, short angles, or slower tempo.
• Junior vs Pro Level Differences:
  Juniors: More creative play is encouraged—use of angles, short balls, and variety.Pros: Tighter targets, higher intensity, less time, and fewer opportunities to improvise.
• Professional-Level Pattern Execution:
  Rely more on controlled crosscourt-to-down-the-line patterning.Use ball depth and direction to move opponents and open the court.