ART-371: The Forehand Approach Shot — Transitioning to Net
Executive Summary
The forehand approach shot is a transitional shot used to move from the baseline to the net, typically hit from mid-court on a short ball. The approach shot must be deep enough to prevent the opponent from hitting an aggressive passing shot, paced enough to limit the opponent's options, and placed to direct the opponent's return toward the player's volley strength. Elite players use the approach shot as a deliberate tactical choice, while recreational players often approach the net with weak shots that invite passing shot winners.
The Mechanics of the Approach Shot
The forehand approach shot uses modified mechanics:
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The swing is more compact than the baseline forehand, with a shorter backswing and a more controlled forward swing.
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The swing path is moderate (15 to 25 degrees above horizontal), balancing topspin with forward drive.
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The contact point is slightly further forward than the baseline forehand to take time away from the opponent.
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The stance is typically neutral or semi-open, allowing the player to transition smoothly to the net after the shot.
Placement Strategies
The approach shot's placement depends on the opponent's strengths and weaknesses:
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Deep to the backhand: Most recreational players have weaker backhands, so approaching to the backhand forces a weaker return.
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At the feet: A short, low approach shot that lands at the opponent's feet is difficult to hit aggressively.
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Down the line: Approaching down the line limits the opponent's angles and sets up a cross-court volley.
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Cross-court: Approaching cross-court opens up the court for the volley and allows the player to cover the down-the-line passing shot.
The Transition to Net
After hitting the approach shot, the player must transition to the net:
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The follow-through is abbreviated to allow the player to begin moving forward immediately.
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The player moves forward in a split-step rhythm, covering the net as the opponent prepares to hit the passing shot.
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The player positions themselves at the optimal volley distance (2 to 3 meters from the net) and prepares for the volley.
Training the Approach Shot
Training involves:
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Placement drills: Practice hitting approach shots to specific targets (backhand, feet, down-the-line, cross-court).
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Transition drills: Practice the transition from the approach shot to the net, including the split-step and volley preparation.
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Tactical drills: Practice using the approach shot in match situations, with a partner attempting passing shots.
Diagnostic & Training Matrix
| Observation | Failure | Result | Corrective Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach shot too short | Opponent hits aggressive passing shot | Lost points | Aim deeper; increase racquet head speed |
| Approach shot too slow | Opponent has time to set up | Vulnerable to passing shot | Add pace; take time away |
| Poor placement | Opponent hits strong passing shot | Lost points | Target opponent's weakness; vary placement |
| Slow transition to net | Vulnerable to lob | Lost points | Move forward immediately; cover net |
| Approach shot into net | Unforced error | Lost points | Add topspin; increase net clearance |
Practical Application: "The Approach and Volley"
Practice the approach shot by having a partner feed short balls from the baseline. Hit a deep approach shot to the backhand corner, then transition to the net and prepare for the volley. Focus on the depth and placement of the approach shot and the speed of your transition to the net.