Approach shot

Approach shot is a term used in the sport of tennis to describe a groundstroke shot that is hit with the intention of moving towards the net for a volley. This shot is typically used as a strategy to put pressure on the opponent and to take control of the point.

Overview

An approach shot is usually hit with extra pace and depth, aiming to push the opponent back and limit their shot options. The player then moves towards the net to prepare for a volley. The approach shot can be hit from anywhere on the court, but it is most commonly hit from near the baseline after a strong groundstroke.

Types of Approach Shots

There are several types of approach shots, each with its own strategic advantages.

Drive Approach

The drive approach is a powerful groundstroke hit with the intention of forcing the opponent to hit a weak return. This allows the player to move forward and take the net position.

Chip Approach

The chip approach is a slice shot hit with underspin. This shot is often used on faster surfaces where the ball stays low after the bounce, making it difficult for the opponent to hit a strong return.

Topspin Approach

The topspin approach is a shot hit with topspin. This shot is often used on slower surfaces where the ball bounces high, forcing the opponent to hit a return from an uncomfortable height.

Strategy

The approach shot is a key part of the serve and volley strategy, where the player serves and then moves forward to hit an approach shot and follow it up with a volley. It is also used in the chip and charge strategy, where the player hits a chip approach shot and then moves forward to volley.

See Also

• Tennis strategy
• Tennis shots
• Serve and volley
• Chip and charge