Tennis doubles strategy is all about precision, positioning, and synergy. Unlike singles, where sheer athleticism can sometimes overpower tactics, doubles is about coordination, anticipation, and executing the right plays at the right time.
If you’ve ever felt like you and your partner are constantly reacting rather than dictating the match, it’s time to rethink your approach. Mastering the court isn’t just about hitting harder. You need to play smarter.
Last weekend at our local club tournament, my partner and I faced the top-seeded pair. On paper, we were outmatched. But we employed a simple tennis doubles strategy: patient positioning, consistent returns deep to their backhands, and smart poaching at the net.
By the second set, their frustration became evident as our tactical approach neutralised their power advantage. We didn’t hit harder; we simply played smarter, winning in straight sets and proving that in doubles, thoughtful strategy trumps raw athleticism every time.
Here’s are the basics of a winning tennis doubles strategy and how to use these ideas in your next match.
Foundations of a winning doubles strategy
Court positioning
Where you stand on the court determines how well you can cover angles, defend against aggressive opponents, and set up offensive plays. The classic “one-up, one-back” formation may seem safe, but it often leaves the net player isolated and the baseline player under pressure.
Instead, aim to transition to an aggressive two-up formation whenever possible. This allows you to control the net, cut off angles, and apply pressure on your opponents.
Key positioning strategies:
- Two-Up Formation: Both players at the net, dominating the point by intercepting volleys.
- Australian Formation: Used during serves to force opponents into awkward returns.
- I-Formation: A deceptive tactic where the net player moves unpredictably after the serve.
Serve and Return tactics that create opportunities
The serve and return dictate how the point unfolds. In doubles, the server’s partner plays a critical role in influencing the returner’s shot.
Serving tips:
- Target the opponent’s weaker side (usually the backhand).
- Use spin serves to make returns harder to attack.
- Communicate with your partner to anticipate returns.
Returning tips:
- Aim for low returns to neutralize the net player.
- Use lob returns against aggressive poachers.
- Keep returns deep to prevent easy volleys.
Net play can be the difference between winning and losing
Doubles is won at the net. If you and your partner hesitate or fail to take control of the net, your opponents will dictate the points. Strong volleying and poaching skills can turn an average team into a formidable one.
Net play essentials:
- Poaching: Anticipate weak returns and move across to intercept them.
- Volleying: Keep volleys low and deep to make it difficult for opponents to attack.
- Overhead smashes: Never let lobs push you back, position early and attack decisively.
Effective communication is your secret weapon
A great doubles team functions as a single unit. If you’re not talking between points, you’re not playing doubles, you’re just two singles players on the same court.
How to improve communication:
- Use hand signals for poaching and positioning adjustments.
- Call shots early and clearly (“Mine!” “Yours!” “Switch!”).
- Discuss opponents’ patterns and weaknesses between games.
Playing to your strengths (and opponents’ weaknesses)
Every team has strengths and weaknesses, yours and your opponents’. The best teams understand how to leverage their advantages while exposing their opponents’ flaws.
Ways to exploit weaknesses:
- Attack the weaker player more often.
- Target the backhand side on groundstrokes and serves.
- Use lobs if opponents crowd the net aggressively.
Handling pressure with confidence
Close matches often come down to how well you handle high pressure situations and your doubles strategy. If you’ve ever struggled with nerves in key moments, adopt a process-focused mindset rather than fixating on the score.
Tips for staying calm under pressure:
- Stick to high-percentage shots and avoid trying to hit risky winners.
- Breathe deeply and slow down between points.
- Use pre-point rituals to maintain focus.
Advanced doubles tactics for competitive play
Once you’ve built a solid foundation, take your doubles strategy to the next level with advanced tactics.
The “Pin and Poach” play
Force one opponent deep behind the baseline while the net player aggressively poaches weak returns. This strategy disrupts their rhythm and forces errors.
The lob and crash
A well-placed lob can push your opponents out of position. Follow it up by moving forward to take control of the net before they recover.
The “X” movement strategy
Rather than moving parallel to your partner, coordinate diagonal movements to cover the court more efficiently and create better angles for attack.
Elevate your doubles strategy today with coaching
Mastering tennis doubles strategy isn’t about being the strongest or the fastest, it’s about outthinking your opponents and executing a smart, disciplined game plan.
The best doubles teams don’t just react; they dictate the match with sharp positioning, relentless net play, and seamless communication.
Want to start winning more doubles matches and develop strategies used by top-level players? Discover an online coaching programme developed by some of the greatest tennis minds, strategies that will help you unlock your full potential and dominate the court.
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