The lob is one of the most important shots in tennis. It is a difficult shot to pull off, and many tennis players struggle to master it. When playing against an opponent who is a particularly good lobber, it can be even harder to handle. So, how do tennis players deal with lobbers? In this article, we’ll discuss the strategies and techniques that tennis players can use to counter a lob shot and keep the point alive.
Understanding the Lob Shot
Before we can talk about how to deal with a lob, it’s important to understand exactly what a lob is. A lob is a high, arching shot that is hit over the net. It is usually hit when a player is trying to get out of a difficult situation, such as when they are at the net and their opponent is at the baseline. The goal of a lob is to push the opponent back, giving the player time to recover and get back into position.
The Benefits of the Lob
When executed correctly, the lob can be a very powerful shot. It can give a player time to recover and reset, and can be used to set up a winning shot. The high arch of the shot also means that it will stay in the air longer, giving the player more time to get into position. Finally, the lob can be used to force the opponent to hit an awkward shot, making it harder for them to win the point.
Countering the Lob
Now that we understand the benefits of the lob, let’s look at some strategies and techniques that can be used to counter it.
Keep the Ball Low
The first strategy is to keep the ball low. When a player is lobbed, they should focus on getting the ball back over the net quickly and at a low height. This will make it harder for their opponent to hit an effective lob, and will also give them time to reset and get back into position.
Be Patient
Another important strategy is patience. A player should not try to rush the shot, as this will make it easier for their opponent to hit an effective lob. Instead, they should take their time and wait for the perfect moment to hit the shot. This will give them the best chance of winning the point.
Hit Aggressively
When a player does have the opportunity to hit a shot, they should do so aggressively. This will put pressure on their opponent and make it difficult for them to hit an effective lob.
Move Quickly
Finally, a player should focus on moving quickly when they are lobbed. This will give them the best chance of getting back into position and hitting a shot before their opponent can get to the ball.
Practice Makes Perfect
It’s important to remember that no strategy or technique will work every time. The only way to become a better lobber is to practice. By consistently practicing the strategies and techniques discussed in this article, a player can become more adept at countering a lob shot and keeping the point alive.
Conclusion
Dealing with a lob shot can be difficult, but it is possible to become good at it with practice. By understanding what a lob is, and by focusing on strategies such as keeping the ball low, being patient, hitting aggressively, and moving quickly, players can become better at countering a lob shot and keeping the point alive.