Shot selection is a crucial aspect of tennis that can often be the difference between winning and losing a point. It involves choosing the right best shot for the right crucial point situation, taking into account factors such as court position, opponent's position, and the type of shot you're comfortable with. In this tennis blog website, we'll study different aspects of shot selection in tennis and how you can improve your decision-making on the court.
4 Factors to Consider in Shot Selection:
- Court Position: Your position on the court plays a significant role in determining the type of shot you should hit. When you're closer to the net, you may opt for a volley or overhead smash depending on the situation of the ball, while from the baseline, you might choose a groundstroke.
- Opponent's Position: Consider where your opponent is on the court. If they're out of position or moving away from the ball is your target, you might hit a more aggressive shot to take advantage of their vulnerability the key here is position like a chess game.
- Type of Shot: Your comfort and proficiency with different types of shots also play a role in shot selection. If you have a strong forehand, you might look for opportunities to use it as a weapon to win the game.
- Game Situation: The score and situation in the match can also influence your shot selection. For example, if you're ahead in the score, you might play more conservatively to avoid making unnecessary errors. Get more percentage game on crucial points.
4 Types of Shots and When to Use Them:
- Groundstrokes: Groundstrokes are the bread and butter of tennis and are typically used from the baseline. Use forehand and backhand groundstrokes to keep the ball deep and force your opponent to move in different direction.
- Volleys: Volleys are shots hit before the ball bounces on your side of the court and are typically used when you're at the net. Use volleys to put away short balls or respond to an opponent's drop shot and any ball movement.
- Overheads: Overheads are shots hit above your head and are used to respond to high balls, such as top lobs and lobs. Use overheads to put the ball away and end the point decisively.
- Drop Shots: Drop shots are shots hit softly and land just over the net, often catching your opponent off guard. Use drop shots to change the pace of the game and keep your opponent guessing.
4 Tips for Improving Shot Selection:
- Anticipate Your Opponent's Next Move know the body language movement: Try to anticipate where your opponent will hit the ball and be ready to respond with the appropriate shot.
- Use Variety in Your Shots to win the game: Keep your opponent guessing by using a variety of shots, including topspin, slice, and flat shots. Find the weakside postion and attack.
- Practice Different Scenarios: Practice different shot selections during training sessions to improve your decision-making under pressure in various angle
- Stay Calm and Focused: Maintain a calm and focused mindset during matches to make better decisions and execute your shots effectively.
To level-up your game you an improve your decision-making on the court strategies and become excellent successful player.