Tennis Tactics: Top Tips For An Aggressive Game

Step 1: Work on your service and returns

The service and return are the most important shots for aggressive play, because they are the first shots in every point. Starting the point well allows you to dominate your opponent right from the first moment.

Step 2: Play the ball as deep as possible

Try to make the ball bounce within one metre of the baseline. This forces your opponent to play from two or three metres outside the court, keeping them continually under pressure. At any moment they might give you a short ball. Be alert, and when this happens, don't hesitate to move to the net to win the point.

Step 3: Make relaxed movements

Relaxed motion leads to better arm acceleration; a faster arm leads to more speed in the ball.

Brute force is never necessary in tennis, and it is quite possible for a less well-muscled player to hit the ball faster than someone with a stronger arm. And it is quite possible for a less well-muscled player to hit the ball faster than someone with a stronger arm.

The secret is employing good technique to make the most of whatever strength you have in maximising your arm speed.

Step 4: Follow up a strong first serve

If you hit a great first serve, make the most of it: get up to the net and win the point. Watch our video "the half volley" for Fab's guide to playing yourself up to the net.

Step 5: Have your tactics clear in your mind

When you decide to play aggressively, either when preparing for a game or as a change of tactic during a match, take no prisoners and be absolutely clear about how you want the game to go. Don't wait to see what your opponent will do. Make your own rules from right from the start, and impose yourself on the game up to the very last point.