Winning doubles teams take the net together, hit through the middle, communicate constantly, and use formations like the I-formation or Australian to disrupt returners. The net player’s poaching and the server’s first volley often decide points.
Doubles formations
| Formation | When to use it |
|---|---|
| Up and back | Standard start; safe for club play |
| Both up | Most aggressive; controls the net |
| Both back | Defensive, against strong net players |
| I-formation | Net player crouches in the middle to confuse the returner |
| Australian | Net player on the same side as the server to stop crosscourt returns |
Key tactics
- Hit down the middle to cause confusion and reduce angles.
- Serve to the body or T to limit return angles.
- Poach when the return is floating or predictable.
- Talk between every point: signals, targets and switches.
- Lob over the net player when they crowd the net.
Rules reference: ITF Rules of Tennis. National federations (such as the USTA) and tours may add their own regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Who takes the ball down the middle?
Commonly the player with the forehand, or the player who hit the last shot; agree on a rule in advance.
What is poaching?
When the net player crosses to intercept a ball heading to their partner.
Can doubles partners talk during a point?
Yes, as long as it does not hinder the opponents.
