ART-610: The Approach Shot — Transitioning from Baseline to Net
Executive Summary
The approach shot is any groundstroke or volley hit with the intention of following it to the net, transitioning from defensive baseline play to offensive net positioning. The approach shot sets up everything that follows — a poor approach invites aggressive passing shots, while a well-placed approach forces weak replies and easy volleys. Mastering the approach shot is essential for any player who wants to finish points at the net.
Types of Approach Shots
There are three primary approach shot types: (1) the drive approach — a full groundstroke hit deep to a corner with the intent to follow to the net, (2) the slice approach — a backspin groundstroke hit low and deep that forces the opponent to hit up on the ball, and (3) the chip-and-charge — a short backspin return of serve followed immediately by a net rush. Each type has specific tactical applications depending on the opponent's strengths and the court situation.
The Drive Approach
The drive approach is hit with full groundstroke mechanics — full rotation, weight transfer, and follow-through — directed deep to the opponent's weaker side (typically the backhand corner). The goal is to force a weak reply that can be volleyed away. The drive approach is most effective when: (1) you are inside the baseline with a short ball, (2) you have time to set up, and (3) the opponent struggles with pace on their weaker side. After hitting the drive approach, split step at the service line and prepare to volley.
The Slice Approach
The slice approach uses backspin (continental grip, high-to-low swing path) to produce a low-bouncing ball that forces the opponent to generate their own pace. This is the preferred approach on: (1) fast surfaces (grass, fast hard courts) where the ball skids, (2) against opponents who struggle with low balls, and (3) when approaching the net on the backhand side (where the slice is more natural). The slice approach is lower risk than the drive approach because the backspin provides margin over the net and the low bounce limits the opponent's aggressive options.
The Chip-and-Charge
The chip-and-charge is a return of serve (typically a short backspin chip to the server's feet) followed immediately by a rushing net approach. This aggressive strategy is most commonly used on fast surfaces and against second serves. The chip must be low and short enough to prevent an aggressive return, and the approach must be rapid to avoid being caught in no man's land. Pete Sampras and John McEnroe were masters of the chip-and-charge.
Approach Shot Direction
Approach shots should generally be directed: (1) to the opponent's weaker side (typically the backhand), (2) deep to the corners (to limit the opponent's angle options), or (3) down the middle (to reduce the opponent's cross-court angle and create confusion in doubles). Avoid approaching up the middle of the court to the opponent's stronger side — this gives them the easiest passing shot with the most open court.
Footwork on the Approach
The approach begins with the shot itself, but the critical footwork follows. After hitting the approach, take 2-3 quick steps forward, then execute a split step at the service line. From the service line, read the opponent's reply: if they hit a passing shot, split step and volley; if they hit a lob, retreat and smash. The approach footwork must be continuous — no hesitation between hitting the shot and moving to the net.
When to Approach the Net
Approach the net when: (1) you have hit a deep approach shot that forces a defensive reply, (2) the opponent has hit a short ball (between the service line and baseline), (3) the opponent is moving backward or off-balance, or (4) you have hit a winner-quality shot that is likely to produce a weak return. Do not approach when: (1) you are behind the baseline and defensive, (2) the opponent is set and balanced, (3) you are facing a strong passer, or (4) the conditions (wind, sun) favor the defender.
The "One-Two" Approach Combination
The most effective approach sequence is the "one-two" combination: first shot (the approach) forces a weak reply, second shot (the volley) finishes the point. The quality of the first shot determines the difficulty of the second. A deep, well-placed approach produces a floating reply that is easy to volley; a short or weak approach produces an aggressive passing shot that is difficult to handle.
Common Approach Errors
Approaching behind the baseline (giving the opponent time and angle). Hitting approach shots too short (allowing the opponent to hit aggressive passing shots). Failing to split step at the service line (flat-footed against fast replies). Approaching too predictably (the opponent anticipates and hits a great pass). Stopping at no man's land instead of committing to the net or retreating.
Tactical Application
Use the approach shot to: (1) finish points against defensive baseliners, (2) pressure opponents who struggle with net-rushing, (3) take time away from opponents who like to set up, and (4) change the rhythm of a baseline rally. The approach is both a point-winning tactic and a psychological weapon — even unsuccessful approaches keep opponents honest and prevent them from settling into a comfortable baseline groove.
Approach Shot Drills
The "short-ball approach" drill has a coach feed short balls that the player approaches and volleys. The "serve-and-approach" drill practices approaching behind first and second serves. The "approach competition" game rewards points won at the net. The "passing shot vs. approach" drill pits an approacher against a passer in competitive rallies.
Summary
The approach shot is the gateway to net play. A well-executed approach forces weak replies and sets up easy volleys; a poor approach invites punishment. Choose the appropriate approach type (drive, slice, or chip-and-charge) based on the situation, direct the approach to the opponent's weakness, and always follow it to the net with a split step.
Diagnostic & Training Matrix
| Observation | Failure | Result | Corrective Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach shot too short | Insufficient depth, too much spin | Attacking passing shot for opponent | Hit approach deeper, aim for service line or deeper |
| Caught in no man's land | Stopping at service line instead of volleying | Easy passing shot opportunity | Commit to net, split step, and volley |
| Approach shot direction wrong | Approaching to opponent's strength | Aggressive passing shot | Analyze opponent's weakness, approach there |
| Cannot handle the lob after approach | Not prepared for lob reply | Easy lob winners | Stay deeper on approach, watch opponent's face |
| Flat-footed at service line | Missing the split step | Slow reaction, weak volley | Drill split step timing, always hop on opponent's contact |
Practical Application: "Approach to Finish, Not to Survive"
Every approach shot should be hit with the intention of finishing the point at the net — not merely surviving the transition. Hit the approach deep and to a weakness, then close aggressively. A tentative approach is worse than no approach at all.