Singles strategy⏱ 2 min read
Breaking Down a Patient Defender
When everything comes back, change angle and pace rather than just hitting harder.
Some players seem to return everything. Smash harder and the block comes back faster. The answer is rarely more power: it is angle, pace change and position.
Why power alone fails
A fast smash also arrives faster for the defender to block. Blocking uses your pace, and a straight, hard smash from deep in the court leaves you far from the net reply.
What works better
- Smash from closer to the net. Attack shorter lifts; a smash from the midcourt is steeper and gives less time.
- Use the body and the hips. A smash at the defender's racket-side hip is awkward to block cleanly.
- Mix steep and soft. Half-smash, then a slice drop, then a full smash. Changes of pace break their rhythm.
- Follow your attack. Most points against defenders are won on the next shot: the loose block you kill at the net.
Be patient too
Defenders hope you will force it. Reset with an attacking clear when you are out of position, and attack again from a better one.
Key takeaways
- Angle and pace changes beat a defender more than power.
- Attack short lifts from the midcourt and aim at the body.
- Win the point with the follow-up shot, not the smash.
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