How to Hit a Top Spin Lob in Tennis

A great tennis player knows how to hit a top spin lob. It's a unique shot that will keep the other player in the dark about where your shots will land. Keep your opponent off guard by consistently hitting volleys and then throwing in a few top spin lobs. But this is a challenging shot. Your opponent can send an incorrect top spin lob right back to you quickly.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Disguise your shot by getting directly behind your ball to make it look as though you're going to attempt a regular passing shot.

2. Hold your racquet so that the face is angled toward the sky. This puts your ball on the path toward greater height. Good height is a crucial ingredient in the correct top spin lob.

3. Hit the ball on the strings, but as close to the top edge of the racquet as possible. This may feel awkward at first, but it will get you used to the vertical sweep you want. You need to hit the ball hard to get it up high.

4. Aim your shot to hit the ball as close to the baseline as possible.

5. Prepare to spend a lot of time practicing the top spin lob by having your partner hit forehand shots to you. The top spin lob is one of the most difficult shots in tennis, but also one of the most dangerous to opponents.

Tips & Warnings

• You have to hit the ball high to avoid giving your opponent an easy overhead return.
• It's easy to hit your head when practicing the top spin lob. Keep the racquet clear of your head.
• The top spin lob is not just for singles play. Use it your advantage in doubles when both your opponents are playing the net.

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