How To Master The Drop Shot

Step 1: Your position

You can play the drop shot when you are close to the net. Simply start in the ready position.

Step 2: Your grip

From the ready position, select your preferred forehand grip. We recommend the eastern forehand grip.

Simply hold the tennis racket with the V of your thumb and forefinger slightly to the right of the top of the grip. Not on the first edge, but on the second.

Step 3: Approach the ball

As soon as you see where the tennis ball is going, pivot your feet to the right. If you're left handed simply reverse these instructions.

The shift of your feet will quite naturally place you sideways on to the court.

As you move towards the ball, stay side on, using side steps and cross steps to adjust your position.

Step 4: Bring the racket back

As the tennis ball is coming towards you, take your racket back a little farther than you would for a volley.

Use your other hand to point at the ball. This helps you track the ball and keeps your body sideways on to the shot.

Step 5: Your swing

Step forwards as you chop down on the ball. Slice the ball with a downward motion of the racket.

Whilst maintaining a firm grip, the skill of the drop shot is to "take the weight off the ball", aiming to take the power out of your opponent's shot.

Due to the delicacy of the shot there is no follow through. You simply return to the ready position.

The drop shot is a weapon that can be used to draw a tennis player out of position by forcing them to come to the net. Or you can use it to win a point when you have already forced your opponent to the back of the court. The choice is yours.