Playing from outside the court: timing and movement

What this lesson covers

Running out of the court to retrieve a smash requires immediate recognition of a short lob. When an opponent prepares a topspin smash, the defender must sprint toward the gate before the ball is struck. This movement relies on anticipating the opponent's ability to drive the ball over the fence. Delaying the start of the sprint results in missing the opportunity to reach the ball in time.

Upon exiting the gate, the player must avoid contact with the net post or the net to prevent losing the point. Instead of looking back at the ball, the player should focus on sprinting to a position outside the court. Once outside, the player turns toward the ball's trajectory to face the court. This orientation provides the best angle to play the ball back inside or over the net. While professionals may use a backhand to return the ball, the primary goal for most players is to regain a high-percentage position. Effective coordination with a partner is essential, as the partner should shift to cover the vacated half of the court.