What Is a Drop Shot In Tennis?
A drop shot in tennis is a low-lying shot that just clears the net and drops down quickly into the opponent’s court. It is usually used as a surprise tactic since it is difficult for the opponent to reach the ball in time. Drop shots are often used when the player is near the net and wants to make their opponent run backward to retrieve the ball.
How To Hit a Drop Shot
Start using drop shots if you want to win points and frustrate your opponents! A drop shot is a soft and low-power shot that clears the net and dies in front of your opponent. It’s the perfect way to surprise your opponent and put them on the defensive.
Here’s how to hit a drop shot in tennis:
1. First, you’ll need to approach the net and get into position for the shot. This means getting close enough to the net to reach over it and make contact with the ball on the other side.
2. When ready, hit the ball with an underhanded stroke, using your wrist to snap your racquet up at the last moment. This will give the ball spin and cause it to drop quickly.
3. Make sure to hit the ball before you rather than underneath it. This will ensure that it has enough forward momentum to clear the net.
4. Finally, put some topspin on the ball by hitting it slightly above its center. This will make it rotate quickly and cause it to dip down into your opponent’s court.
When To Use a Drop Shot?
1. When your opponent is at the back of the court
If your opponent is positioned at the back of the court, they will have to run a long way to reach your drop shot, giving you time to move into position for the next shot.
2. When your opponent is out of position
If your opponent is out of position, they will not be able to reach your drop shot, allowing you to move into position for the next move.
3. When your opponent is not expecting it
If your opponent is not expecting a drop shot, they will be caught off guard, giving you the advantage in the rally.
4. When you want to change the pace of the game
If you feel like the rally is getting too fast, you can use a drop shot to change the pace. This will throw your opponent off and give you time to regroup.
5. When you want to surprise your opponent
If you feel your opponent is getting too comfortable, you can use the move to surprise them. This will catch them off guard and allow you to take control of the rally.
How To Properly Defend a Drop Shot In Tennis
Tip 1: Knowing where your opponent is on the court is important. They’re likely to hit a drop shot if positioned near the back fence. So, you should start moving toward the front of the court as soon as they hit the ball. Putting you in a better position to reach the ball and keep it in play.
Tip 2: Make sure you’re not too far from the net. The closer you are to the net, the easier it will be to reach the ball. If you’re too far back, you won’t be able to get to the ball in time, and your opponent will win the point.
Tip 3: Stay calm, and don’t rush your shot. The move can be tricky, but if you take your time and focus on making contact with the ball, you’ll be able to defend against it successfully.
What’s The Difference Between a Slice & Drop Shot In Tennis?
The main difference between a slice and a drop shot is how the ball is hit. When hitting a slice, the player uses an underhand motion to hit the ball with an open racket face, causing it to spin and travel in a low and sideways trajectory. On the other hand, a drop shot is hit with an overhand motion and a closed racket face, making the ball travel in a high and forward trajectory.
While both shots keep your opponent off balance, they serve different purposes. A slice is typically used when you want to keep the rally going and make your opponent run from side to side. On the other hand, a drop shot is used as a surprise attack when you want to end the rally quickly.
Conclusion
When executed correctly, the drop shot can be a very effective way to win a point. If your opponent is positioned too far back or if you have them running around the court, using this move may be your best chance at scoring.
