Imagine you’re locked in a rally, trading groundstrokes with your opponent. The ball zips back and forth, and you’ve hit a couple of solid shots. Now comes the question: What’s next? Will you keep hitting from the baseline, waiting for them to make a mistake? Or will you take charge, step forward, and dictate the point?
The ability to move forward during a rally isn’t just about aggression—it’s about playing smarter, managing your energy, and maximizing your chances to win the point. It’s a blend of tactics, strategy, and efficient decision-making. Let’s break it down.
The Tactical Edge of Moving Forward
At the start of the point, most rallies are evenly balanced. Both players are testing each other, finding their rhythm, and trying to gain control. But as the point progresses, the dynamic shifts. If you’ve played a few good shots—keeping the ball deep and crosscourt or making your opponent run—it’s time to look for opportunities to step in.
By moving forward, you change the tempo of the rally and apply pressure. Your opponent now has less time to recover, which often leads to shorter or weaker replies. A ball that lands inside the baseline gives you an opening to take control. From there, you can dictate the point, whether by hitting an aggressive shot, forcing an error, or setting yourself up for a finish at the net.
This tactic works particularly well when you keep your shots deep and angled. A deep, crosscourt ball in singles keeps your opponent on the move and far from the baseline, making it harder for them to hit with power or accuracy. The result? They send back a shorter shot, and you’re ready to pounce.
Strategic Pressure and Opportunity
Moving forward isn’t just about hitting winners—it’s about creating opportunities. When you step inside the baseline, you force your opponent to play under pressure. They see you closing in and know they have less time to respond. That pressure often results in rushed shots, errors, or predictable patterns you can exploit.
In doubles, the dynamic changes slightly. If both opponents are at the net, a well-placed lob over their heads forces them to retreat, disrupting their positioning. Once the ball bounces, you can move forward and prepare for a weaker return. Whether in singles or doubles, the principle remains: use movement to turn defense into offense and capitalize on your opponent’s vulnerabilities.
Energy Management and Match Strategy
Beyond tactics and strategy, moving forward is a smart way to manage your energy. Staying back and grinding from the baseline for long rallies takes a toll—not just physically but mentally. By stepping in, you shorten the point and conserve energy, particularly during tight matches or long tournaments.
This doesn’t mean rushing to the net recklessly. Moving forward should be calculated and tied to your overall strategy. Look for patterns: Is your opponent consistently hitting short when on the run? Do they struggle with low balls or volleys? Recognizing these cues helps you time your forward movement effectively, allowing you to end points on your terms while staying fresh for the rest of the match.
Mastering the Art of Forward Momentum
The key to moving forward isn’t just physical—it’s mental. It’s about recognizing when the momentum of the rally shifts in your favor and seizing that opportunity. A low, crosscourt slice might force your opponent to stretch awkwardly, giving you the chance to step in. A deep return might push them off balance, opening the court for your next move.
If your opponent beats you to the net, keep your shot low and look for their mistake—a pop-up volley or a short reply. From there, you can close in and regain control. Even if you’re under pressure, moving forward strategically forces your opponent to think twice and react to your decisions rather than dictating the point themselves.
Taking Control of the Point
The next time you’re in a rally, don’t just think about surviving the point—think about owning it. Move forward as the point develops, use angles and depth to keep your opponent on the back foot, and look for openings to attack. Whether it’s stepping inside the baseline, hitting a deep approach shot, or finishing at the net, forward momentum keeps you in charge and helps you play more efficiently.
Remember: every step toward the net isn’t just a step closer to the ball—it’s a step closer to winning the point. By blending tactical awareness, strategic pressure, and smart energy management, moving forward becomes not just a tool in your arsenal but a defining element of your game.
