Attacking easy balls: placement and technique

What this lesson covers

An easy ball occurs when the bounce happens inside the second post, allowing contact above net height. When opponents are at the back or caught in no man's land, the primary target is the center of the court. This forces both defenders to move diagonally and creates open space elsewhere. If a clear gap exists in the corner, aim for the side glass or double glass to keep the ball low.

Technically, take the racket back at shoulder level and swing horizontally with a downward path to generate slice. Avoid chopping down, as the goal is to brush through the ball to combine power with backspin. High racket head speed is useful, but prioritize margin for error over hitting winners near the glass. Always prepare for a return shot rather than relaxing after the strike. Avoid drop shots from above net height, as they give opponents time to reach the ball and potentially counter-attack. Hard, flat hitting often allows defenders to use the back glass for an easy return, so maintain a balance of speed and spin to keep them pinned at the back.