Intermediate

Depth Control

Also known as: hitting deeper, hit deeper, deep groundstrokes, balls landing short, ball landing short, shot depth, depth of shot

Definition

To hit deeper, aim higher over the net instead of hitting harder. Swing low to high, extend the racquet toward the target and let topspin bring the ball down near the baseline. Short balls often clear the net too low or come from a cut-off follow-through.

Depth depends mostly on net clearance and spin, not on pace. A ball that skims the net tends to land short, even when it is hit hard. Raise the target over the net and the same swing lands deeper. Topspin lets you aim higher and still bring the ball down inside the baseline. The net is lowest in the middle, at 3 feet, and rises to 3½ feet at the posts (ITF Rule 1). Crosscourt and middle balls have a little more room.

Technique helps too. Swing from below the ball to above it, and extend the racquet out toward the target before it wraps around the body. Lift through the shot with the legs instead of only the arm. Make contact out in front of the body. Late contact often sends the ball short or wide. A full finish is a common cue for depth.

Practice with a target. Many coaches mark a line or zone a few steps inside the baseline and count rally balls that land past it. Start in slow, cooperative rallies, then add pace once depth is reliable. Depth is not the goal on every ball. Short angles, drop shots and low passing shots are planned exceptions.

Beginner tip

In rallies, aim for the ball to clear the net well above the tape. Count how many land past the service line and try to raise that number each session.

Advanced note

Vary depth with purpose. A heavy, deep ball pushes an opponent back, and the next short angle then has more room. Control depth with height and spin rather than pace.

Example

Rallying crosscourt, a player keeps landing balls just past the service line. He aims well higher over the net and extends through the shot. His balls start landing near the baseline, and his opponent begins hitting from farther back.

Why it matters

Deep balls push your opponent back and give them less time and fewer angles. Short balls invite them to step in and attack.

Common mistakes

Hitting harder instead of higher to get more depth
Aiming low over the net and landing the ball short or in the net
Cutting the follow-through short instead of extending toward the target
Making contact late or beside the body

Frequently asked questions

How do I hit deeper in tennis?

Aim higher over the net, swing low to high and extend toward the target. Topspin brings the higher ball down near the baseline. Hitting harder alone usually sends the ball into the net or long.

Why do my groundstrokes land short?

Usually the ball clears the net too low, contact is late, or the follow-through stops early. Raise your net target, meet the ball in front and finish the swing.

How high over the net should I hit?

There is no single number. Rally balls with topspin can clear the net by a good margin and still land deep. Raise your target until the ball lands near the baseline, then keep that height.