Singles Strategy

Here's a focused guide on singles tennis strategy, designed to help you outplay your opponent with smart positioning, shot selection, and mental discipline:

1. Control the Center of the Court

• Stay near the center of the baseline after each shot to cut off angles.
• Avoid being pulled too wide unless absolutely necessary.
• Make your opponent run more than you—you control the rallies by holding position.

2. Play to Your Opponent's Weakness

• Early in the match, figure out whether their backhand or forehand is weaker.
• Hit consistently to their weaker side to force errors or weak replies.
• If they struggle with movement, hit behind them or use drop shots.

3. Use High-Percentage Shots

• Prioritize consistency over flash—avoid unnecessary risk unless you're set up well.
• Hit deep and cross-court when in trouble—it gives you margin for error and resets the point.
• Avoid going for the lines unless the opportunity is clear.

4. Vary Pace and Spin

• Mix topspin with flat shots and slices to disrupt your opponent's rhythm.
• Throw in occasional drop shots, lobs, or off-speed balls to change tempo.
• Don't be predictable—variation keeps your opponent uncomfortable.

5. Plan Point Construction

• Think two or three shots ahead.
  • Example: Use a wide serve to pull them off court, then hit into the open space.
• Use patterns that play to your strengths (e.g., serve wide + inside-out forehand).

6. Serve with Purpose

• Don't just serve hard—aim with intent (wide, body, or T).
• Set up your first shot after the serve (called the "serve +1" strategy).
• Mix in different spins (flat, slice, kick) to keep them guessing.

7. Attack Short Balls

• When your opponent hits a short ball, move forward aggressively.
• Take it early and go for a deep shot or finish at the net.
• Convert short balls into points—don't give them back control.

8. Use the Net Strategically

• Approach the net after a deep, well-placed shot—not randomly.
• Hit approach shots cross-court to keep your angles wide.
• At net, stay low, be ready to volley quickly, and close in with confidence.

9. Stay Mentally Focused

• Don't dwell on mistakes—move on to the next point.
• Play each point with full effort, regardless of the score.
• Use changeovers to reset your plan and breathe.

10. Adjust as Needed

• If something isn't working, adapt. Try new targets, adjust spin, or change pace.
• Watch how your opponent reacts to each tactic—and exploit patterns.

Key Principle: In singles, your best strategy is to out-think and out-position your opponent. You don't need every shot in the book—just the right ones, used at the right time.