Coaching the drop shot

What is a drop shot?

A drop shot is a soft, controlled shot that brings the ball low and close to the front wall, ideally landing just above the tin. It's designed to move the opponent forward, often forcing them to stretch and making it harder for them to recover. Use it to:

• Break the rhythm of a rally.
• Apply pressure by changing the pace.
• Take advantage of an opponent's poor positioning (e.g. they are deep in the court).
• Finish off a rally when the opponent is out of position.

Coaching points

• Grip: Keep a soft grip for better control - focus on feel rather than power.
• Racket preparation: Prepare early with an open face.
• Follow through: Keep it smooth and short to maintain control.

Potential challenges

• Hitting too high: Often caused by a lack of confidence or poor racket angle. Encourage players to visualise a target on the wall.
• Lack of control: Might result from a tense grip. Practice with a relaxed hand.
• Predictable use: If overused, opponents will anticipate. Encourage variety.
• Poor movement: Not getting low enough leads to weak shots. Emphasise bending the knees and lunging effectively.

Watch it in action