Three Shots in One

June 11, 2014 | By Juan Oscar Rios

During many years of teaching and coaching tennis at all levels, I have realized that having the tennis technique of “Three Shots in One” in your bag will guarantee great success at any level you compete at.

I would like to share this key tennis shot that I believe is very important in developing and perfecting your tennis skills. It is a shot for all levels of play.

The key to any tennis shot, whether you are a professional or a beginner is “preparation.” Preparation includes several aspects that will enable the player to execute any shot they desire. The first step for any shot comes when the mind tells the body to turn and get sideways to prepare for the ball that is coming your way while you are at the baseline.

For “Three Shots in One,” you will need to prepare the following way:

►Imagine your opponent hits a ball that you can recognize will land short or near the service line.

►The best way to execute the “Three Shots in One” is to have the perfect disguise. The first step is to turn early with the racquet head slightly over your head and the butt of the racquet facing straight down. Then, as you move forward towards the ball, you will have three different shots to choose from:

1. To drive the ball down the line or cross-court using all of your body weight as you strike the ball and moving forward towards the net.

2. To slice the ball (you need to change your grip to a Continental Grip as you take your racquet back) down the line or cross-court also by moving forward as you hit the ball.

3. To drop shot, also with a Continental Grip, hit the ball as you move forward giving the perfect disguise to your opponent with the possibility of eight different shot options.

Remember that the key is to prepare early by taking your racquet back as soon as you recognize your opponent’s shot coming to your side landing short.

If you continue working with the correct fundamentals of the game, I guarantee you will be successful at any level you decide to compete at.


Juan Oscar Rios
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