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Pushing in Tennis

Apr 29, 2012 | By Robin Bateman

Pushing in tennis refers to a style of play. Players often develop a style of play which falls into one of the following forms; baseliners, counter punchers, all-courters, net players and pushers. Your fitness level, agility, footwork, endurance, height, etc factor into your personal playing style. Pushing is often viewed as negative because pushers are defensive players who prefer long rallies over hitting winners and don’t hit the ball with pace. (see reference 1 and 2)

Characteristics of a Pusher

Pushers, also known as the human backboards, are defensive players who are able to chase down balls and keep them in play, utilize short drop shots followed by lobs, hit with slice or side-spin and execute strokes without pace all while maintaining patience. They are quick on their feet, consistent and manage to stay in the rally. Pushers win points because they play a clean game and wait until their opponents commit errors.(see reference 3, page 7)

How to Beat a Pusher

Pushers thrive on frustrating their opponents. Becoming annoyed increases your chances of committing errors. Instead, remain calm; hit a few moonballs because moonballs are difficult to return with slice and sidespin, which the pusher uses. Place your shots forcing the pusher to move in diagonals; hit your shots early, but be careful not to rush which encourages unforced errors; come to the net making the pusher hit a passing shot. (see reference 1)

Learn to Push the Ball

Learning how to push the ball deepens your understanding of the approach and therefore better prepares you when faced with opponents who push. Begin by hitting your groundstrokes similar to your lobs but with much less backswing than you usually use. You want your balls to land deep in the court and bounce high. (see reference 5) Develop both forehand and backhand slice shots learning to execute them with and without pace. Add drop shots to your repertoire. Replace your first big serve with your second serve or slice serve and above all, relax.

Pushers on the Pro Tour

Recreational tennis players aren’t the only ones who employ pushing techniques, American Brad Gilbert reached a career high of No. 4, and Andy Murray of Great Britain reached the No. 2 spot as did American Michael Chang in 1996 and Sweden’s Bjorn Borg made it to No. 1. (see reference 6)

References

Article reviewed by JamesS Last updated on: Apr 29, 2012

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