Strategy ?? Oh that little ingredient is pretty important. You know why ?
Ever lose to a player with ugly strokes ? He didn't look as good as you, but strategically he was better.
It comes down to hitting every ball with a purpose. Here are my 5 quick strategy tips :
1) TRIM THE FAT
Reduce your unforced errors. Hit hard enough to keep the ball in play, without over hitting. You win by hitting the ball in the court one more time than your opponent. Eliminate out balls by adding spin and aiming diagonally (you'll be aiming over the lowest part of the net , into the longest part of the court.
2)SPACE INVADER
Aim into opponent's open spaces. That will wear em down and make it hard to hit effectively on the run.
3) GEOMETRY 101
Try positioning yourself in the center of opponent's best 2 shots.
Aim more shots cross court (diagonal) , rather than down the line (straight) since the court is longer on the diagonal....plus the net is lower
4) USE YOUR WEAPON
Have you determined your strongest shot ? If it's the forehand then move around your backhand to hit more forehands. Are you a strong volley er? Then look for ever opportunity to get to the net. Do you have good cardio fitness ? If so, make your opponent hit a lot of ball.
5) IDENTIFY OPPONENT'S WEAKNESS
Below are some examples & what to do in each case
-Weak net game : give em a short ball and bring them to the net
-Weak forehand ( backhand): hit 75% of shots to that side.
-Uncomfortable with shoulder high balls (short person) : hit moon balls
-Hates to bend (tall person): hit low balls (slice)
-Slow or out of shape: hit angles or drop shots to run them around
Let me know if you find these helpful !
