Watch ball during contact?

[enwar3]

Are we supposed to watch our balls during contact? I've always just looked back over the net as I hit, but I see a lot of videos showing people looking at the ball as they make contact and for a split second afterward too.

[EricW]

Are we supposed to watch our balls during contact? I've always just looked back over the net as I hit, but I see a lot of videos showing people looking at the ball as they make contact and for a split second afterward too.

Yes, you should always look at the ball through the contact zone, because not only will you mishit less and therefore be more consistent but it'll keep your head still, which helps, and also prevents you from "popping up" which is a problem a lot of players experience

[Gantz]

always keep your eyes focused on the ball, even if there's a really hot chick walking by.

[Jonny S&V]

always keep your eyes focused on the ball, even if there's a really hot chick walking by.

Lol, you really can't watch the ball as it hits the racquet string bed, but it will help you judge where to hit the ball.

[lakis92]

Federer does. I think sometimes we all should to have a consistent ball contact.

[plowmanjoe]

you should watch the ball at contact and actually you should also leave your eyes and head there for a short time after you already contacted the ball.

[JMS]

you should watch the ball at contact and actually you should also leave your eyes and head there for a short time after you already contacted the ball.

that is correct and it helps me make a cleaner shot

[ChocolatePie]

Yep. I usually look at the ball while I hit.

Not during volleys really though.

[plowmanjoe]

you should on volleys too. i'm thinking especially on volleys you should keep your eye on the ball

[Bagumbawalla]

Yes, you should really watch the ball through the point of contact.

Obviously, at some point, the ball becomes a greasy smear of yellow at some point, but you should do your best to concentrate on the ball (what else??).

Like most sports, tennis is a game that requires sustained concentration. The more you can focus on the object of the game, the ball, the more likely all of the elements of your game will come together-- footwork, stroking, balance, anticipation, and so forth.

But, don't just watch the ball as it comes to your racket. Watch the ball as you hit it across the net. Imagine the most likely returns, position yourself for what your opponent will likely hit back to you. Follow the ball, again, from his/her racket back to your side of the court. Make small adjustments. Keep your eye on the ball.

Repeat.