Doubles match in tennis involves 4 players which can either be Men’s doubles, Women’s doubles or Mixed doubles. It is played at high tempo and is a complex game which involves constant activity of all the 4 players. In doubles, you need to think constantly, as every shot you play should be with a definite plan to evade your partner from trouble. Thus, while playing doubles, there are a few strategies which should be followed as well as some tips like –
- Aggression is the key to winning in doubles game. You should get to the net as often as possible and keep the ball low.
- Server should be responsible. Try and get first serve in 65-75% of time. A double fault is inexcusable in doubles.
- You should never let the ball go down the middle of the court without someone hitting the racquet. You should always follow the direction of the ball with one player in the middle and other partner covering the alley.
- Lob the ball over your opponents and make them hit the ball from behind the service line. Do not try and hit the ball too long near the baseline.
- Communication is extremely essential for a successful doubles partnership. You and your partner must be able to know the exact plan at any given time. For this purpose, hand signals are very essential and effective mode of communications.
- As there are two players on each side of the doubles match, movement is very critical part. Move with your partner in a parallel motion, which will avoid crossing over each other on court. Also cover your own lob, to avoid this crossing.
- There are times when you are not sure where to hit the ball. At such moments, hit the ball down the middle, which is the lowest part of the net and the highest percentage shot.
- Always look for volley and smash, and only move back when absolutely necessary.
- You should offer suggestions to your partner but do not scold or fight with your partner. Also, do not show your annoyance with your partner as he/she is also trying their best to win.
- Spot the weaker player among your opponents and center your attack on that player.
The key to success in doubles is team work and not individual brilliance.