Coach Randy Ross obviously read Bill Talbert’s classic book
The Game of Singles in Tennis written 75 years ago.
Randy teaches players that playing cross court in singles is the percentage
play. He stresses that the net is lower, the court is longer (4.5 ft.), and the ideal
recovery position (center of possible returns) is 2-3 steps less than when a player
hits down the side. Wise is the player who utilizes this pattern as they can attain
a mental groove that minimizes scattered thinking.
The approach shot is a different situation. For decades, coaches taught their players
to play deep down the line to give them the most efficient method of covering potential
passing shots. Around 1986, an astute coach realized playing deep down the line was resulting
in far too many errors wide and long.
Not everyone was like Australian great Ken Rosewall who reportedly could place 90 % of his backhand approach
shots within 10 inches of the baseline/sideline intersection.
Another option was used against Jimmy Connors…players approached down the center because of Jimmy’s
terrific angled passing shots and to play over the 6 inches lower net.
The approach remains an under practiced shot as juniors and adults alike tend to play the ball after
two bounces when warming up or hitting with friends.
A smart coach developed a simple cure for this…the player says no if he/she perceives the ball landing too
deep to approach and ‘now’ as soon as the ball is deemed short enough to come in.
What You’re Saying