How to Hit a Cross-Court Shot in Tennis

The key to winning the battle of the baseline in tennis is to keep the opponent on the run until he is either put away or makes an unforced error. That's why hitting both cross-court forehands and backhands successfully is so important.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tennis racket
• Tennis balls
• Tennis court

1. React quickly to the opponent's shot. The faster player is the one who can set her feet and prepare to hit, which gives her a tremendous advantage.

2. Pull the racket back while running to the ball. Doing so after arriving at the destination is a waste of time and will invariably rush the shot.

3. Keep the elbow straight, but relaxed. Don't hit with the lower arm. Those who don't feel pressure in the shoulder and upper arm when hitting a tennis ball is not hitting it correctly. But don't strain the arm extension.

4. 
   This is the proper backhand stroke when hitting a cross-court shot

   Line your feet up in the direction toward which you plan on hitting the ball. When blasting a cross-court forehand line the feet up in that direction and stroke it just a bit early. Do the same with a cross-court backhand. The ball should strike the racket parallel to the body.

5. Follow through. Don't stop the stroke after making contact with the ball because the racket will have lost its momentum. Keep in mind that a harder shot will be more difficult for the opponent to reach.

6. Don't rush back to the middle of the court after hitting the cross-court shot. If the opponent is in a corner, race to the baseline of that same side of the court and prepare to move in for an approach shot if he hits a weak return.

Tips & Warnings

• A strong topspin or backspin on the cross-court shot will make it even more difficult for the opponent to hit an effective return. A topspin will drive her deeper and a backspin will force her to lift her shot up.
• Don't fall in love with the cross-court shot. Mix in down-the-line shots as well to keep the opponent on the move. Don't become predictable.