When And When Not To Hit Dropshots

The drop shot, probably the most under used stroke in club tennis, and also probably the shot that when played, is played at the wrong time.

The most important thing to remember is that the drop shot is an offensive NOT a defensive shot.

Too often, I have seen the losing player or a tired player use a drop shot in desperation. Simply put, the player is attempting to win a point quickly and cheaply without regard to whether the situation is desirable for an effective drop shot. Once I see a player hit a drop shot out of frustration, desperation or fatigue… I know that the player is likely to lose the match!!!

So, here are some simple guidelines to help you know when to hit a drop shot and how.

• Don’t hit drop shots on critically important points. Why? Well, we usually do not truly “own” drop shots. They are risky. Indeed, they are usually too risky for critically important points.

• Never attempt to hit a drop shot unless you are inside the baseline. I would put forth the “rule” that one should never hit a drop shot unless she/he is at least within three feet from the service line.

• Attempt drop shots only when your opponent is behind his/her baseline or pulled wide out of court. You always want your opponent to have to run hard to hit a reply to your drop shot. Even if he/she makes a reply and wins the point, the running may add to his/her fatigue.

• Try to place your drop shots so that they pass over the lowest part of the net. Too often on the backhand side, I see players attempt drop shots that are directed down the line. The net is 6 inches higher near the posts! Drop shots are hard enough to hit, why make them even harder?

• Always advance forward after hitting the drop shot and follow the path of your shot to the net. Many modern players have great wheels! They can scramble and get to many drop shots. You need to be prepared to hit a volley, or perhaps an overhead smash, should the opponent make a reply off of your drop shot.

Use the drop shot with care. Just because you were able to win a point or two off drop shots does not mean that this should become your new “norm” in competition. The drop shot is best when it is used sparingly and wisely.

Now out you go and try this on the court!