Good tennis defence means buying time: hit high, deep balls or lobs when you are stretched, use the slice to stay in the point, recover to a good position quickly, and look for a chance to neutralise and then attack.
Defensive shots
| Shot | When to use it |
|---|---|
| High, deep ball | Reset the rally when pushed back |
| Defensive lob | When the opponent is at the net and you are stretched |
| Slice | When pulled wide on the backhand |
| Squash shot | Very stretched on the forehand side |
| Block | Against very fast balls |
Defensive habits
- Recover to the centre of the opponent’s possible angles.
- Stay balanced; do not overreach.
- Aim deep and middle to reduce angles.
- Watch for short balls to switch to offence.
- Stay patient; many attacks end in errors.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best defensive shot in tennis?
A high, deep ball to the middle is the safest way to reset most rallies.
How do I defend against a net rusher?
Mix low passing shots at the feet with lobs.
Is being a defensive player bad?
No. Strong defence wins many matches, especially when combined with the ability to attack.
