Volley to the fence: tactics and technique

What this lesson covers

The volley to the fence serves two primary tactical purposes. A drop volley directed toward the fence forces the opponent to play a ball that rebounds unpredictably off the wire. This shot is most effective when played down the center of the court. Unlike a standard drop volley, which requires heavy backspin to stay low, a drop volley to the fence allows for a simpler block with more margin for error.

An aggressive, sliced volley to the fence is best executed from the outside of the court. By moving around the outside of the ball, the player creates a sharper angle that forces the opponent to defend a difficult trajectory. This shot should only be attempted on neutral or easy balls, as a poor execution leaves the center of the court exposed. Because these volleys require specific court geometry to be effective, they are rarely played at the start of a point. Instead, they follow a period of pressure that forces opponents toward the back glass. Players must remain selective and ensure they are well-positioned to cover the next ball, as the fence can occasionally cause the ball to pop up.