Smash technique: contact point and timing

What this lesson covers

Hitting a smash outdoors requires adjusting to wind and varying bounce conditions. Contacting the ball as high as possible reduces the time the wind has to move the ball off its path. A higher contact point also allows the player to use the legs to generate impulse rather than relying solely on arm power. When the ball is closer to the net, hitting on top of the ball creates a high bounce. When the lob is deeper, the shot requires more wrist movement to control the trajectory.

Players often struggle with timing because they contact the ball too low, near head height. This creates a motion similar to a vibora rather than a powerful smash. To improve, focus on hitting the ball flat using the full surface of the racket. If conditions are difficult, such as high wind or sun, prioritize consistency and timing over maximum power. Adapting to these environmental factors is a skill that requires practice, even for professional players.