Mastering Doubles Strategy: Key Tips for Becoming a Doubles Dynamo

Introduction

Doubles tennis is a fantastic way to engage in the game with a partner, and it brings a whole new dimension to your tennis experience. Unlike singles, doubles requires a unique strategy, emphasising teamwork, communication, and positioning. Here are some essential tips to help you elevate your doubles game and outsmart your opponents on the court.

1. Communication is Key

Good doubles teams communicate constantly. Talk to your partner between points, before serving, and after each rally. Discuss tactics, positioning, and your opponents' strengths and weaknesses. Decide in advance who takes balls down the middle and whether to play aggressively or defensively. Strong communication ensures you’re both on the same page and makes you a more cohesive unit.

2. Positioning Matters

In doubles, where you stand on the court can make all the difference. Here are some guidelines:

• Serve and Volley: A strong tactic is to serve and move quickly to the net. This puts pressure on your opponents and cuts down their reaction time.

• Cover the Middle: The middle of the court is the most frequent target for your opponents, as it's the safest shot. Make sure either you or your partner is ready to intercept balls that come down the middle.

• Net Play: One player should generally be at the net while the other covers the baseline. If you're at the net, position yourself diagonally from your partner to cut off angles.

• Poaching: This is when the net player crosses over to intercept a shot meant for their partner. It's a great way to surprise your opponents and keep them guessing, but communicate with your partner beforehand!

3. Master Your Serve and Return

In doubles, the serve and return are crucial:

• Serve: A well-placed serve can give your team the upper hand. Aim to serve wide to open up the court or target the opponent's weaker side. Consider a body serve to jam their return.

• Return: Focus on consistency. Target the server’s partner to force them to make a difficult volley or aim deep to push your opponent back. A low return can make it harder for the net player to volley.

4. Use the Lob Wisely

The lob is an excellent weapon in doubles, especially if your opponents love to crowd the net. A well-executed lob can force them to retreat and give you control of the point. If they start expecting lobs, it opens up opportunities to hit passing shots or drop shots. Remember to mix it up to keep your opponents off balance.

5. Play to Your Strengths

Each player brings unique strengths to a doubles team. One of you might have a powerful serve, while the other excels at the net. Identify your strengths and your partner's, and build a strategy around them. If one of you has strong volleys, they might be better off playing at the net more often, while the baseline specialist stays back to set up points.

6. Be Unpredictable

Good doubles players make it difficult for opponents to anticipate their next move. Change up your shots, vary your serves, and don’t always target the same player. Use unexpected angles, slice, topspin, and drop shots to create doubt and disrupt your opponents' rhythm.

7. Stay Positive and Support Each Other

Doubles is as much a mental game as a physical one. Stay positive, even when mistakes happen, and encourage your partner. Keeping a good attitude can make a huge difference, especially in tight matches. Show support when things get tough, and remember that you win or lose as a team.

8. Focus on Court Awareness

Developing good court awareness is crucial for doubles. Watch your opponents' positioning and movement patterns. If you notice they leave the court open after a certain shot, capitalise on it. Pay attention to their tendencies and use that information to anticipate their next move. It’s all about seeing the bigger picture and playing smart.

9. Practice Your Net Game

The net is the most influential area in doubles. Working on your volleys and overheads can elevate your game. Practice quick reactions, positioning, and volley accuracy. Having strong net skills can put you in control of the point and apply pressure on your opponents.

10. Have Fun and Embrace the Challenge

Doubles can be incredibly fun when you play with the right mindset. Enjoy the challenge of working as a team, learning new strategies, and outsmarting your opponents. A positive, competitive spirit will not only make you a better player but will make your doubles experience more rewarding.

By focusing on these key aspects, you’ll be well on your way to mastering doubles strategy. Remember, the best doubles players are adaptable, communicate well, and support each other on every point. Grab a partner, get out on the court, and start putting these strategies into practice!