Coach serves from Deuce/Ad side. Player returns with forehand cross court. Coach hits the ball back to forehand. Player finishes to the open space.
In this exercise, returner works on basic forehand patterns.
Many players miss first shot after the serve/return because they are not used to practicing them. It is a primary goal for any player to learn how to connect one shot with another. Looking at Rafa Nadal and admiring his placement and consistency with returns should make all tennis players aware that this skill can be taught. It is matter of time and repetitions to achieve decent level so players should always try to implement patterns (tactical area) into practice drills.
On-court coaching is now fully legal, technology continues to advance, and the ATP calendar evolves. Here's what tennis coaches need to know for 2026.
Tennis demands a unique combination of endurance, power, agility, and flexibility. Physical preparation determines how long careers last and how players perform when it matters most.
Ecological dynamics is transforming tennis coaching. This constraints-led approach develops adaptable, creative players who can solve problems in competition, not just execute drilled patterns.
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