Singles Style of Play

Singles is the Game of Imagination.

Success on the court demands many things. How do I want to play this match? How do I want my opponent to play this match? You need to tailor your games strengths and weaknesses around your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses to ensure success. In addition to playing high percentage tennis, you need to understand different types and styles of play to ensure a solid game plan. How does their game relate to your style? What is their style? To be successful, your game should reflect your ability to adapt to one or more of the 4 basic styles of play,

ALL COURT PLAYERS:

These are players who are shot makers that switch from defense to offense easily. All-courters are typically athletic quick and fit. There a tough puzzle to solve. Play your strengths and their weaknesses. Adjust your style of play at opportune times. Keep the ball deep as they attack and volley well. Vary your pace, spins, heights and use your angles. Don’t give them a rhythm point. Attack with confidence. Play one more shot and be patient.

AGGRESSIVE BASELINER:

This is a player with quickness, endurance, and strength. They’re a risk-taker with a big weapon. Likes to go big early in the point and keeps the pressure on. They like to stay back on the baseline and pound. They have average patience and only come in if you’re wounded. Get ready to hustle. You’ll need to mix up the pace and the rhythm with slice, floaters, angles, and most importantly depth. Precise footwork and balance are essential for you to combat their style.

PUSHER-RUNNER:

They work the point and make the rallies last at least 4 shots. Look for opportunities to get to the net and finish off the point. Play behind this player, as they cover the cross court shot early. Use drop shots and short angles to bring them in — they don’t like to leave the comfort of the baseline. Keep the ball in the middle of the court, it negates their speed and reduces their angles. BE PATIENT. Keep the volleys short, so that they have to move diagonally.

COUNTER PUNCHER:

A counter-puncher is quick, with steady ground strokes, accurate passing shots and well placed lobs, with a “never say die attitude”. They are a similar type of player as the pusher-runner but likes pace. Be selective on your shots. They are target players who like to pass from the corners. Hit your approach shots down the middle to minimize the angles. Hit short angle volleys. Mix up the speed on your serve.