returning low balls

[seb]

I have an opponent that often hits low, slow-paced flat or sliced balls that hit around the service line and bounce about knee high. I am fairly successul returning the ones to my backhand with a slice. However, the balls that are in front of me or to my forehand I too often hit into the net. I am usually running into these shots. I use a semi-western grip on my forehand and a continental/eastern on my backhand slice.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[Bungalo Bill]

I have an opponent that often hits low, slow-paced flat or sliced balls that hit around the service line and bounce about knee high. I am fairly successul returning the ones to my backhand with a slice. However, the balls that are in front of me or to my forehand I too often hit into the net. I am usually running into these shots. I use a semi-western grip on my forehand and a continental/eastern on my backhand slice.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Sounds like slow feet. Also, bend those knees not your back and don't droop the racquet so much (which you can do to some extent on the forehand).

 

[loubock]

Knee high ball-semi western no problem---no open stance- step with one foot ahead of the other with your head over your back hip and think of your back knee hitting the ground--then the key is to aim at the very bottom of the ball and drive it just above the net with your head down and your wrist firm.You are inside the court so remember where the center tape is as if you lift too high you'll have the opposite problem where the ball goes long. you're welcome, cause i know this works.

 

[ffrpg]

I also use a SW grip on my forehands, but I always net balls that bounce low near the service line. I usually change my grip and use an eastern forehand instead on low bouncing balls. It seems to work well.

 

[jun]

These are tough balls to handle. I think the most important thing is to recognize this ball as soon as possible, and then get up there as quickly as possible.

Bend your knees, and stay down throughout the shot.

 

[paulfreda]

Low balls

I hit with SW on both sides.
On the BH side, I will just slide under the ball for a slice/cut rather than hit topspin if the ball is well in front and low. I just need to get my wrist in front of the strings.
On the FH side I still hit with top on this type ball because the racquet naturally opens up for a ball well in front.

It is a low ball that catches me late and is back near my body that is a tough one for me and this usually requires a grip change on both sides.

On second thought, I do not need a grip change on the FH side with SW. If he has caught me late, it is always a ball which is rising (and low) and the closed SW face is helpful in controlling it.

 

[seb]

Great suggestions.

Thanks very much.

seb