In club tennis, especially across the USA, around 90% of matches are played as doubles. That means knowing how to hit a solid tennis volley isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. This article breaks down the fundamentals of the volley, offers real tips for real players, and provides practical advice to level up your net game with confidence.
What Is a Volley in Tennis?
A volley is a shot you hit before the ball bounces on the ground. Unlike groundstrokes, it’s all about reaction, anticipation, and clean ball impact. You’ll typically play volleys near the net, aiming to cut off angles and reduce the opponent’s time to respond.
A common question: Is it called a volley or rally? A rally is an extended exchange of shots between players, while a volley is a specific shot—a quick strike of the ball in the air, most often near the net.
Why Volleys Matter in Doubles
In doubles, the team that owns the net usually controls the point. Since you and your partner are often positioned forward, knowing how to volley with precision is critical. You’ll face fast shots, awkward angles, and lots of movement. That’s where strong technique and the ability to react quickly come into play.
The Basics: Volley Preparation and Footwork
Preparation starts with your grip. Most players use a continental or “hammer” grip, which allows you to switch between forehand and backhand volleys without changing hand position. It’s comfortable, efficient, and effective.
Stay light on your feet. Use multiple split steps to adjust your body position. Your legs are your foundation—not just for movement, but for generating control and power. Think of the volley as a linear shot—unlike a serve or groundstroke, there’s no big swing. Instead, you push from your back leg to your front leg, similar to a lunge.
Forehand and Backhand Volleys
The forehand volley is often more natural. It requires a slight shoulder turn and firm grip, keeping the racket face steady.
The backhand volley tends to be more difficult. You need a compact motion, a short punch, and a solid grip. Keep your elbows in front and close to your body to avoid over-swinging or losing control. Using your legs to power through helps keep the shot consistent.
Handling the Heat: Hard Shots at the Net
Fast balls can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to deal with them:
Bend your knees and stay low to absorb pace.
Keep your elbows tight to your body but positioned in front.
Focus on clean ball impact by keeping your head still.
It’s a matter of positioning. If you’re too extended, you lose control. If you’re too close to your body, you may swing or mistime the shot.
Volley Drills: Practice Makes Confident
Want to get better? You need volley drills. Next time, try this:
Stand close to a hitting wall.
Try to hit 10 volleys in a row without swinging.
Adjust based on where the ball rebounds: too hard and it flies, too soft and it doesn’t return.
These drills improve footwork, ball tracking, and consistency. You’ll learn to find rhythm, improve striking, and gain confidence in your game.
Advanced Shots: Drop Volleys and Swing Volleys
The drop volley is a touch shot that barely clears the net. It requires good feel and soft hands—perfect when your opponent is deep or off-balance.
The swing volley is more aggressive. You add a fuller swing when the ball is high and you have time. It’s riskier but can be a weapon if executed well.
There’s also the half volley—struck just after the ball bounces, on the rise. It’s tricky, but great for scrappy saves.
Hitting the Right Spots: Court Positioning
Good volleying isn’t just about hitting the ball—it’s about where you send it. Aim:
At your opponent’s body to jam them.
Down the middle to create confusion in doubles.
Short to draw them in, then lob or go over the top.
Don’t forget the passing shot. If you’re at the net, your goal is to avoid getting passed. If you’re hitting at someone at the net, aim for the sideline or a sharp angle.
Strategy and Net Play
So, why does no one serve and volley anymore? Mainly because of faster rackets and topspin returns. But in doubles, coming in behind a serve still works. The key is doing it at the right time—when your opponent is out of position or hitting from the baseline.
Strategic tips:
Mix in volleys with slices, lobs, and drop shots.
Change depth and angle to break the rhythm.
Watch your opponent’s patterns and anticipate their shots.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to improve your tennis volley, this article should give you a solid foundation. From grip to ball contact, from forehand to backhand volley, you now have more options to build confidence at the net.
Remember, the best players combine timing, positioning, and smarts. Add in a few focused volley drills, and you’ll be tougher to beat. Follow the advice here, keep the tennis volley shot short and sharp, and watch your game transform.