Volley technique: flat and sliced variations

What this lesson covers

Volleying requires choosing between a block, an attack, or a slice depending on the incoming ball speed and opponent position. For blocking powerful shots, keep feet planted, prepare the racket short in front of the body, and use the incoming power rather than trying to attack. Avoid guessing directions by keeping the racket in the middle and using shoulder rotation instead of wrist movement to maintain control.

When slicing, let the ball come closer to the body to engage the entire torso rather than just the hand. This creates acceleration and spin without losing control. For flat volleys, avoid pushing with the elbow, which causes unwanted slice. Instead, push forward with the shoulder to keep the ball trajectory consistent. When changing sides, use flat shots to ensure the ball reaches deep, as sliced shots often lack the necessary depth to force the opponent back. The primary goal is to pressure the opponent with simple, consistent shots that prevent them from playing a lob. This lesson is for players looking to improve their net consistency and decision-making.