A volley is a shot in tennis where a player returns the ball before it bounces. Players typically perform volleys at the service line or closer to the net. Volleys are usually aggressive because their primary function is to run your opponent ragged or interrupt the timing of the rally, giving you a chance to catch them off guard or instantly win the point.
How to Volley in 3 Steps
When performing a volley, the player must keep their racket up and block the ball in front of their body as quickly as possible, which means there is no time for wind-up or backswing. However, coming up to the net leaves the net player vulnerable to passing shots or deep lobs, the latter of which can ruin their advantage by sending them scrambling back to the baseline to regain control of the point again. Volleys require impeccable timing because you are positioned much closer to the net. Check out this step-by-step guide to performing a good volley:
1. Get the right grip. Volleying works best with a Continental grip, as it is most efficient for hitting both forehand and backhand volleys without changing your hand-positioning. When you’re at the net, every second counts, and having to reposition your hand can determine whether you hit a winner, or sink the tennis ball right into the net.'
2. Get the right stance. When you approach the net, you need enough time to split step. A split step is a simple jump in the air, landing on a balanced point with your legs out. A split-step helps you to regain your balance if you’re doing a lot of movement, and in addition to securing your stance, sets up your positioning to hit a volley.
3. Get the right motion. A standard volley needs a slightly open racquet face and a downward cut in the volley motion, resulting in backspin that makes the volley bounce low in your opponent’s court. Move your hand in the direction that you want the ball to go and to keep your head down and eye on the ball.
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