A high shot to the backhand is one of tennis's more challenging returns to execute successfully. You can handle this type of shot in several ways. The approach that is best depends on the nature of the shot and your positioning. The speed of the ball and your footwork can help you determine how to handle a high backhand. Ultimately, try to address the ball either as it rises or as it lowers and, when possible, avoid playing the ball when it is at its highest. Practice this return shot by having a training partner serve high shots to your backhand at various speeds and angles.
Fast-shot Approach
Step 1
Read the speed of the ball and determine if it is slow or fast. If it is fast, allow the ball to bounce up high. Use this time to position yourself properly.
Step 2
Shuffle your feet backward and wait for the ball to come down. Address the ball once it is at a height that is easy for you to play. Keep enough distance between you and the ball so that your arm is fully extended when swinging your racket.
Step 3
Hit the ball hard and add topspin if you can. The ball will have lost much of its velocity after the bounce, and only a powerful shot will get the ball over the net. Consider also that you are now further from the net since you've moved back to address the ball.
Slow-shot Approach
Step 1
Read the speed of the ball and determine if it fast or slow. If the shot is slow, move forward and into the oncoming shot.
Step 2
Play the ball quickly as it rises after the bounce. This method eliminates the chance of the ball bouncing high. Keep enough distance between you and the ball so that your arm is fully extended when swinging your racket.
Step 3
Slice the ball during your backhand to help force the shot over the net and produce a competitive return shot. If you address the ball with a flat stroke, you risk hitting the ball into the net or making a shot that your opponent will likely return easily.
Approach for Addressing the Ball at its High Point
Step 1
Position yourself for a high backhand shot by keeping your feet moving. Do not move forward or backward. Use this approach when you decide to address the ball at its high point.
Step 2
Move your weight into your backhand shot once the ball reaches its high point after the bounce. Swing your racket up and through to create topspin on the ball. Keep enough distance between you and the ball so that your arm is fully extended when you swing your racket.
Step 3
Follow through with your racket across your body and up to ensure the ball receives enough spin to produce a competitive countershot. If the ball does not have much spin on it and is merely lobbed over the net, your opponent will have an easy time returning your backhand.
Things You'll Need
- Racket
- Training partner
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