Always tired

the archives are organised by year; there is a folder for every year

the archives aren't complete; there are still a lot of matches missing, because getting/downloading/uploading everything takes looooong, and my internet's honestly not very fast so it takes even longer. but! there's a good amount already and particularly the 2025 season is almost complete (if i've got everything right i should only be missing carlitos's ao r1 match because i haven't been able to get it —and yes i'm upset about it— but everything else is there!); i kept postponing sharing this because i am a perfectionist but i think this is actually a great time to share it even if it's not perfect (UGH) because it's off season and you might want to watch replays now more than ever since there's not a lot of live tennis happening!

in the main folders you'll see text files with links to google sheets where i'm keeping track of all the matches. this has the double function of helping the archive be more accessible, because if you're looking for a specific match you'll know if it's already archived, if i already have it but haven't uploaded it yet, or if i don't have it. and if it's archived you'll find the link that'll take you to the match directly; and the other function is to keep track of their careers; these spreadsheets also aren't complete (you'll see a lot of empty rows, it's just because it was easier for me to already have all the rows for every year) because, again, a lot of work haha but 2025 is all good and i'm slowly compiling the rest of the years in their careers

you'll see the last column in the spreadsheets is a 'result' column. i made it very large on purpose as to make it less visible and 'spoil' as little as possible. idk, i like going into matches blind, so i thought it was better if the results weren't that visible! but feedback on this is appreciated, i went back and forth on whether to include the results at all (i decided to do it more for the 2nd purpose of the spreadsheets aka keeping track of their careers)

there is also a 'notes' column where i put, well, various notes, info on the files that might be useful to know, so do check that out!

most things are written like they're written on the atp website: names of players, tournaments, etc. it seemed like the easiest way to have a consistent 'system'

speaking of system, in the archives the matches are always named in the same way: [year] [tournament] [# of match] [round] [players]

you'll see in the spreadsheets that there's a column for commentary language: sometimes there are multiple languages. to be able to switch language, though, you have to download the file and play it with something that allows you to do that (like vlc). the mega built-in player will automatically play it with one language that you can't change and, from what i understand, but i could be wrong, it's either the default language of the file (i tried to always have it be english when english was one of the languages available) or! the default language of your mega app and maybe your browser. i'm not 100% sure about how this works though, honestly

i've reaaalllyyy been trying to have every video be playable directly through mega because i know it's easier to stream rather than download for a lot of people; if a video doesn't play, first try another browers, then do let me know and i'll try to see if that's an issue with the file and if it's fixable. unfortunately mega isn't perfect as a player and some formats/codecs simply aren't supported, and sometimes converting is a headache

in general please do let me know if anything's wrong in the archives, files, links, names, spreadsheets, anything. it really is a lot of files and data so i could surely fuck something up sometimes

1.1 serves - however every point begins

every tennis point starts with a serve. the player stands behind the baseline and hits the ball into the diagonal service box on the other side of the court.

a good serve can start a rally safely, push the opponent wide, or even win the point right away. players change the speed, spin, and direction to create different kinds of serves. here are the five most common ones you’ll see.

1.1 flat serve

➤ what it is: the fastest kind of serve, hit straight through the ball with almost no spin.

➤ how it’s hit: the player tosses the ball slightly in front, swings forward, and drives through it.

➤ what it looks like: • travels in a straight line, very fast • bounces low • makes a loud, sharp sound • gives the receiver almost no time to react

➤ why it’s used: to win quick points or force weak returns. usually used as a first serve because it’s powerful but riskier.

➤ how to spot it: flies straight and fast, bouncing low and skidding through the court.

➤ best surfaces: works best on grass and hard courts, which are fast and low-bouncing. less effective on clay, which slows it down and makes it bounce higher.

1.2 slice serve

➤ what it is: a serve that curves sideways through the air and slides off the court after bouncing.

➤ how it’s hit: the player brushes around the side of the ball — like slicing bread — so it spins sideways.

➤ what it looks like: • starts straight, then curves • stays low and skids sideways after landing • pulls the opponent wide off the court

➤ why it’s used: to open up the court or move the opponent out of position.

➤ how to spot it: the ball seems to drift sideways, and the returner has to chase it off to one side.

➤ best surfaces: great on grass and hard courts, where the ball slides and stays low. not as strong on clay, where the surface grips the ball instead of letting it skid.

1.3 kick serve

➤ what it is: a slower serve with lots of topspin that makes the ball jump up high after bouncing.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket brushes up the back of the ball from low to high, adding heavy spin.

➤ what it looks like: • goes higher over the net • bounces high and jumps toward the receiver • often pushes the opponent back

➤ why it’s used: safe and reliable, especially for second serves, because the spin helps it dip into the court.

➤ how to spot it: high, looping arc and a high bounce that makes the returner hit the ball above shoulder height.

➤ best surfaces: best on clay and hard courts, where the ball grips and bounces high. weaker on grass, where the ball skids instead of rising.

1.4 body serve

➤ what it is: a serve aimed right at the opponent’s body to jam them and take away their swing.

➤ how it’s hit: struck like a flat or slice serve but aimed directly at where the opponent is standing.

➤ what it looks like: • heads straight toward the receiver • makes them twist or step back awkwardly

➤ why it’s used: to surprise the opponent or make them hit an uncomfortable shot.

➤ how to spot it: lands near the middle of the box and forces the receiver to move aside quickly.

➤ best surfaces: works well on all surfaces, since placement matters most. on hard courts it’s especially effective; on grass it stays low and quick; on clay it bounces into the body.

1.5 underarm serve

➤ what it is: a soft, surprise serve hit from below the waist instead of overhead.

➤ how it’s hit: the player lets the ball drop and scoops it gently under the ball, often adding backspin so it slows down quickly.

➤ what it looks like: • just clears the net • lands close to the front of the service box • makes the opponent rush forward unexpectedly

➤ why it’s used: to surprise opponents who stand very far back or to change the pace of the match.

➤ how to spot it: the swing is short and gentle, and the ball floats softly instead of flying fast.

➤ best surfaces: very effective on clay, where players return from deep positions. also good on grass, where it stays low. less effective on hard courts, where it bounces higher.

2. returns — the first shot after the serve

the return of serve is the shot that starts the point for the player who is not serving. it’s one of the most important shots in tennis because it sets the tone for the rally — a good return can instantly turn defense into attack.

returns are all about timing, anticipation, and quick reactions. you have less than a second to see where the serve is going, move, and hit the ball back into play.

2.1 basic return technique

➤ what it is: the standard way to return a serve, focusing on control, balance, and quick preparation. the goal is simply to get the ball back deep and safe, especially against a strong server.

➤ how it’s hit: players stand just behind the baseline in a ready position, knees bent, racket in front. as the serve comes, they react instantly — turning shoulders and using a short, compact swing. it’s not about power; it’s about meeting the ball early and using the server’s pace.

➤ what it looks like: • short swing, often just a block or quick flick • small step forward to absorb or redirect speed • focus on accuracy, not power

➤ why it’s used: • to neutralize fast serves and start the rally • to keep the ball deep and prevent attack • to set up an advantage early in the point

➤ how to spot it: look for a player standing near or just behind the baseline, making a short, simple swing right after the serve. the ball travels fast but under control, landing deep in the court.

➤ best surfaces: works best on hard courts, where timing is predictable. on clay, players stand farther back to handle high serves. on grass, the return must be quick and low because the ball skids fast.

2.2 chip return

➤ what it is: a slice-style return hit with a short downward motion and backspin to keep the ball low. often used to neutralize big serves or set up a move to the net.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket face is slightly open, cutting under the ball for spin. the motion is smooth and controlled — not a full swing.

➤ what it looks like: • calm, chopping motion • the ball floats low and slows after bouncing • often followed by the player stepping forward

➤ why it’s used: • to defend against powerful serves • to change pace and disrupt rhythm • to set up volleys or attack next

➤ how to spot it: the player makes a small, downward slice motion. the ball travels slower and stays low and skidding, often forcing the server to hit upward.

➤ best surfaces: excellent on grass and fast hard courts, where the low bounce makes it hard to attack. less useful on clay, where the ball bounces higher.

2.3 block return

➤ what it is: a quick, defensive return where the player simply blocks the ball back with almost no swing. used mainly against very fast serves or when there’s no time to react.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket stays firm, meeting the ball and letting it rebound off the strings. the swing is tiny — more like a volley from the baseline.

➤ what it looks like: • minimal motion • the ball rebounds quickly with the server’s own pace • very steady stance

➤ why it’s used: • to return extremely fast serves • to redirect speed without effort • to keep the ball in play safely

➤ how to spot it: look for a player who barely swings at all — the racket just meets the ball and sends it back using the server’s power. it happens very fast, often on big first serves.

➤ best surfaces: strongest on grass and indoor hard courts, where serves are fastest. less needed on clay, where there’s more time to react.

2.4 topspin return

➤ what it is: an aggressive return hit with heavy topspin to attack slower or second serves. it’s meant to take control of the point right away.

➤ how it’s hit: the player swings upward through the ball, brushing up its back to add spin and lift. it’s like a quick, compact groundstroke.

➤ what it looks like: • high, arcing path over the net • deep, heavy bounce • strong follow-through over the shoulder

➤ why it’s used: • to push the server back and take control • to attack weak serves early • to start the rally aggressively

➤ how to spot it: watch for a fast upward swing and a ball that travels high but dips quickly into the court, then jumps up after the bounce. it’s often used on slower, second serves.

➤ best surfaces: best on clay and hard courts, where topspin grips and bounces high. less effective on grass, where low skids reduce its effect.

2.5 chip-and-charge return

➤ what it is: a classic attacking return, where the player slices the ball low and rushes the net right after hitting it.

➤ how it’s hit: the player uses a short slice motion to keep the ball low, then charges forward quickly.

➤ what it looks like: • quick slice return • immediate sprint to the net • next shot is a volley or smash

➤ why it’s used: • to surprise the server • to put pressure right away • to control the net early in the point

➤ how to spot it: the returner makes a low, slicing motion and then runs forward immediately. if you see someone returning and sprinting toward the net right after contact — that’s a chip-and-charge.

➤ best surfaces: perfect for grass and fast hard courts, where the ball stays low and fast. rarely used on clay, since the slower bounce gives the server time to react.

2.6 lob return

➤ what it is: a defensive or surprise return hit high over the server’s head, especially when they come to the net.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket face opens slightly, lifting the ball high with a smooth, upward swing. placement matters more than power.

➤ what it looks like: • the ball travels high and deep • forces the opponent backward • gives the returner time to recover

➤ why it’s used: • to defend against serve-and-volley tactics • to reset the point • to force opponents back and regain control

➤ how to spot it: you’ll notice the player lifting the ball high right after the serve, sending it over the opponent’s head. it often makes the crowd gasp when it lands deep and turns defense into attack.

➤ best surfaces: most effective on clay, where the ball bounces high and slows down. also useful on hard courts, but risky on grass where the bounce stays low.

3. groundstrokes — the main rally shots

after the serve and return, most points are played with groundstrokes — shots hit after the ball bounces once. they’re the core of tennis rallies and help players control pace, direction, and height. every player relies on two main groundstrokes: the forehand and the backhand.

3.1 forehand

➤ what it is: the most common and natural shot in tennis. it’s hit with the palm facing the ball and is usually the player’s most powerful and confident stroke.

➤ how it’s hit: the player turns sideways, brings the racket back, and swings forward across the body, brushing the ball to control speed and spin. power comes from the legs, hips, and shoulders working together.

➤ what it looks like: • hit on the player’s open side (right side for right-handers, left side for left-handers) • smooth, circular swing • strong body rotation and follow-through across the shoulder or up over the head

➤ why it’s used: • to build up rallies and control play • to attack short or weak balls • to create angles or hit winners

➤ how to spot it: the player’s palm faces the ball, and the follow-through usually finishes on the same side or over the shoulder. the swing often looks bigger and more open than a backhand.

➤ best surfaces: works well on all courts, but: • topspin forehands are strongest on clay and hard courts, where the high bounce gives more control. • flat and slice forehands work best on grass, where the lower bounce helps them skid through quickly.

types of forehands

a. technical / grip-based categories

forehands are often described first by the grip on the racquet handle:

eastern forehand – more “classic” grip; easier to hit flatter, good for all-court play.

semi-western forehand – the most common modern grip; ideal for topspin and heavy baseline play.

western forehand – extreme grip; produces huge topspin, great for high balls but harder on low ones (often used by clay-court specialists).

continental forehand – old-school for drive forehands; now mostly used for slices, volleys, and serves rather than modern topspin drives.

stroke style: straight-arm vs bent-arm

straight-arm forehand – hitting arm almost fully extended; gives big leverage and whip.

bent-arm forehand – elbow more bent; often feels more compact and stable on fast balls.

one-handed vs two-handed forehand

one-handed forehand – standard, used by almost everyone.

two-handed forehand – rare niche style; adds stability for some juniors or players with specific needs.

b. spin / trajectory categories

flat forehand – minimal spin, fast and penetrating; riskier with less net clearance.

topspin forehand – brushed up the back of the ball; gives arc over the net and dip into the court (the default modern forehand).

heavy topspin forehand – exaggerated upward path for a very high, kicking bounce (classic on clay, nadal-style).

slice forehand – backspin, floating or skidding; used for low balls, change of pace, or approach shots.

c. specialty / touch forehands

forehand drop shot – soft, with underspin; lands just over the net to punish a deep opponent.

forehand lob – lifted high over an opponent at the net, with flat, topspin, or slice.

forehand flick – short, wristy action when there’s no time for a full swing (on the run or at net).

forehand block – tiny backswing, mostly using the ball’s pace; common on big first-serve returns.

d. directional / tactical categories

cross-court forehand – longest distance and lowest part of the net; safest rally ball and used to build points.

down-the-line forehand – straight along the sideline; riskier but great as an attacking pattern-breaker.

inside-out forehand – player runs around the backhand to hit diagonally into the opposite corner; a core modern attacking pattern.

inside-in forehand – also hit from the backhand side, but driven straight down the line; a more direct, aggressive finishing option.

e. stance / movement categories

open-stance forehand – hips more toward the net; the standard modern forehand, good for power and fast recovery.

semi-open / neutral stance – more side-on; gives solid balance and is often taught first to beginners.

closed stance – stepping across the body; useful for low or short balls when moving forward.

running forehand – struck while sprinting laterally; often defensive or used as a counterpunch.

jumping / airborne forehand – player leaves the ground to unload on a short or high ball, using body rotation for extra power.

f. offensive vs defensive usage

offensive forehand – flatter or heavy-topspin drives, inside-out/inside-in patterns, down-the-line winners, approach shots.

neutral forehand – medium-pace topspin cross-court to control rallies and move the opponent.

defensive forehand – high, loopy topspin, squash-shot slices, or emergency lobs used to survive and reset the point.

3.2 backhand

➤ what it is: the backhand is the other main groundstroke — hit from the opposite side of the body, with the back of the hand facing the ball. it’s used for control, defense, and variety. players can hit it with one hand or two hands.

➤ how it’s hit: the player turns sideways, swings forward across the body, and makes contact in front of the hips. • one-handers use reach, timing, and fluid motion. • two-handers use both arms for power and stability.

➤ what it looks like: • more compact swing than the forehand • the shoulders turn completely into the shot • follow-through goes across the chest (two-handed) or over the shoulder (one-handed)

➤ why it’s used: • to stay consistent in long rallies • to return fast serves or deep balls • to change direction and open up space on the court

➤ how to spot it: look for the player hitting on their non-dominant side, with the back of the hand facing the ball. two-handed backhands look short and solid; one-handers are long, flowing, and elegant.

➤ best surfaces: • two-handed backhands work best on hard and clay courts, where there’s time to swing and absorb pace. • one-handed and slice backhands shine on grass, where the low bounce makes them stay close to the surface.

types of backhand

a. technical types

• one-handed backhand — long reach and great feel, allows variety but needs precise timing. • two-handed backhand — stable, compact, and reliable, especially strong against pace.

b. spin / trajectory types

• flat — minimal spin, fast and direct but low margin for error. • topspin — brushed upward for height, safety, and depth. • heavy topspin — extreme spin creating a high, jumping bounce. • slice — backspin that floats or skids low, great for variety and defense.

c. specialty / touch types

• drop shot — soft, delicate touch landing just over the net. • lob — lifted high over a net player for defense or attack. • flick — quick, wristy redirect used when stretched or rushed. • block — short, controlled absorption of pace, often on returns.

d. directional / tactical types

• cross-court — safest directional option, used for rallying. • down-the-line — aggressive pattern-breaking shot straight ahead. • inside-out — backhand struck from the forehand side into the opposite corner. • inside-in — backhand from inside the court hit straight down the line.

e. movement / stance types

• open stance — used under pressure or on fast balls for quick recovery. • neutral stance — standard rally setup with balanced positioning. • closed stance — stepping across the body for stability and rotation. • running backhand — executed while moving laterally, often defensive. • jumping backhand — airborne contact to redirect pace aggressively.

f. defensive types

• squash shot — emergency slice/flick when extremely stretched. • block — compact hold to neutralize pace (also appears in specialty types). • defensive lob — high, resetting shot to recover court position. • stretched flick — improvised, wristy shot used when wide and off balance.

4. volleys and net play

volleys are shots hit before the ball bounces, usually near the net. they’re quick, controlled, and often used to finish points or pressure opponents. players who move forward after serving or hitting a strong approach shot use volleys to take control of the point early.

unlike groundstrokes, volleys rely on timing, positioning, and touch, not big swings. the racket acts like a wall — meeting the ball early and guiding it where you want it to go.

4.1 basic volley

➤ what it is: a standard volley hit out of the air before the ball bounces. it’s the most common net shot and the base for all volley variations.

➤ how it’s hit: the player holds the racket steady with a short, firm motion, using the opponent’s speed instead of generating their own. contact happens in front of the body with a slightly open racket face.

➤ what it looks like: • compact swing, little to no follow-through • steady body position close to the net • the ball travels flat and fast

➤ why it’s used: • to take time away from the opponent • to control rallies at the net • to finish points quickly

➤ how to spot it: look for a player close to the net making a short punch-like motion without letting the ball bounce. the ball shoots off fast and low.

➤ best surfaces: very effective on grass and fast hard courts, where the ball stays low and quick. slightly harder on clay, where opponents have more time to pass.

4.2 punch volley

➤ what it is: a firm, attacking volley where the player pushes the racket forward like a punch to hit through the ball.

➤ how it’s hit: the player steps into the shot and drives the racket slightly forward, adding a bit more force than a basic volley. timing is key — the goal is to redirect pace, not swing hard.

➤ what it looks like: • short, solid “punch” motion • little follow-through • ball leaves the strings with speed and control

➤ why it’s used: • to finish points or put opponents on defense • to add power to passing balls • to handle fast, low shots near the body

➤ how to spot it: the motion looks like a boxer’s punch — short, sharp, and straight forward. the sound is crisp, and the ball flies deep and firm.

➤ best surfaces: great on hard and grass courts, where volleys move fast. on clay, timing must be perfect due to slower pace.

4.3 drop volley

➤ what it is: a soft, delicate volley that lands just over the net and stops quickly — like a drop shot, but played in the air.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket absorbs the ball’s speed with a soft touch, letting it fall gently off the strings. the motion is smooth, almost like catching the ball.

➤ what it looks like: • short, floating ball that drops just past the net • no big movement — just a calm, soft push • often catches the opponent running the wrong way

➤ why it’s used: • to surprise opponents who are far behind the baseline • to finish points with touch instead of power • to change rhythm at the net

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see the player soften their motion suddenly and the ball barely clears the net, bouncing twice before the opponent can reach it.

➤ best surfaces: most effective on grass and clay, where the ball either dies quickly (grass) or slows on the bounce (clay).

4.4 half volley

➤ what it is: a shot hit just after the ball bounces, usually near the net or baseline when there’s no time for a full swing. it’s half groundstroke, half volley.

➤ how it’s hit: the player bends low, keeping the racket close to the ground, and meets the ball as it rises right after the bounce. requires great timing and soft hands.

➤ what it looks like: • very low contact point • quick, short swing • the ball travels low and flat across the court

➤ why it’s used: • when the opponent hits deep or low at the feet • to stay in the rally near the net • to recover quickly and keep pressure on

➤ how to spot it: look for a player catching the ball right after it bounces, often near their shoes — a low, scooping motion with quick reflexes.

➤ best surfaces: great on hard courts, where the bounce is consistent. trickier on grass (low bounce) and clay (slow rise).

4.5 drive volley

➤ what it is: a more modern, attacking volley, hit with a full swing like a groundstroke but taken in the air. used to finish points with power instead of touch.

➤ how it’s hit: the player moves forward and takes the ball early, swinging through it with topspin. contact happens high and in front of the body.

➤ what it looks like: • big, full follow-through • ball hit firmly and fast • often used mid-court to end rallies

➤ why it’s used: • to attack short or floating balls • to finish points aggressively • to combine groundstroke power with net position

➤ how to spot it: you’ll notice a player swinging hard in mid-air before the ball bounces — it looks like a forehand or backhand, but taken early.

➤ best surfaces: effective on hard and clay courts, where players can time the bounce. on grass, timing is trickier due to unpredictable skids.

4.6 swinging volley

➤ what it is: a variation of the drive volley — an aerial forehand or backhand hit with topspin while moving forward. it’s a favorite in modern tennis for finishing fast rallies.

➤ how it’s hit: the player swings fully, brushing up on the ball before it lands. usually taken mid-air with good timing and balance.

➤ what it looks like: • full swing in the air • ball hit with spin and power • often followed by a jump or landing forward

➤ why it’s used: • to end rallies decisively • to keep control at the net • to turn defense into offense quickly

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see the player jump slightly, hitting with a full swing before the ball lands — it looks like a flying forehand or backhand.

➤ best surfaces: works well on hard and clay courts, where timing is easier. on grass, lower bounces make it harder to execute cleanly.

5. overheads and lobs

overheads and lobs are two opposite types of shots that often happen near the net. the overhead smash is a strong, attacking shot used to finish points, while the lob is a clever or defensive shot that sends the ball high over the opponent’s head.

both shots need good timing — one is about power, the other about control and placement.

5.1 overhead smash

➤ what it is: a powerful shot hit above the head, like a serve in motion. it’s usually played when the opponent hits a weak or high ball that floats up — the perfect chance to end the point.

➤ how it’s hit: the player moves under the ball, watches it carefully, and swings overhead with a smooth, serve-like motion. the racket meets the ball high and follows through downward to send it sharply into the court.

➤ what it looks like: • hit from above the head • strong downward swing • the ball travels fast and steep into the court • often finishes the point instantly

➤ why it’s used: • to finish rallies when close to the net • to punish weak or defensive lobs • to turn defense into offense

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see the player looking up, tracking the ball, and swinging like they’re serving — it’s fast, loud, and usually ends with a clean winner.

➤ best surfaces: very effective on grass and hard courts, where the ball stays low after bouncing. less dominant on clay, where the slower court gives opponents more time to react.

5.2 lob

➤ what it is: a high, arching shot that travels over the opponent’s head, usually when they’re near the net. it can be defensive (to buy time) or offensive (to hit a winner).

➤ how it’s hit: the racket face opens slightly and brushes up under the ball, sending it high into the air. it’s about height and direction, not power.

➤ what it looks like: • a tall, looping arc over the court • lands deep near the baseline • forces the opponent to run back or hit an overhead

➤ why it’s used: • to pass the opponent at the net • to defend when under pressure • to change the pace and reset the rally

➤ how to spot it: look for a ball that rises high over the opponent’s head and drops deep near the baseline. the opponent usually turns and chases it — or watches it land just out of reach.

types of lob

• defensive lob: hit high and deep with little spin to give the player time to recover. used when stretched wide or forced off balance. ➤ how to spot it: travels very high and slow, landing deep and letting the hitter move back into position.

• offensive (topspin) lob: hit with heavy topspin so it rises fast, dips quickly into the court, and bounces high over the opponent’s head. used to attack or pass at the net. ➤ how to spot it: rises quickly, drops sharply, then jumps high after bouncing — often turning defense into attack.

➤ best surfaces: • clay — perfect for both types; the slower bounce makes them safer and more effective. • hard courts — balanced for both offense and defense. • grass — trickier, since the ball skids instead of bouncing high.

6. defensive and counter shots

defensive and counter shots help players recover when under pressure or turn defense into attack. instead of going for winners, these shots focus on control, placement, and spin to keep the rally going — or even catch the opponent off guard.

great defenders use these to stay in points that look lost, forcing mistakes or creating space to strike back.

6.1 slice defense

➤ what it is: a low, skidding slice hit with backspin to slow the ball down and reset the point. it’s one of the safest defensive tools — perfect for keeping the rally alive when you’re stretched wide or off balance.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket face opens slightly, and the player cuts down and through the ball, adding backspin so it floats low and stays in play.

➤ what it looks like: • slow, floating ball that stays low • smooth, downward motion • often gives time to recover to the middle

➤ why it’s used: • to buy time under pressure • to change pace and disrupt the opponent’s rhythm • to force the opponent to hit up from a low position

➤ how to spot it: the player uses a smooth, slicing motion and the ball slides low after bouncing, often barely clearing the net. it looks like it’s gliding instead of spinning fast.

➤ best surfaces: very effective on grass and fast hard courts, where the low bounce makes it hard to attack. on clay, it’s still useful but bounces slightly higher.

6.2 lob defense

➤ what it is: a high, deep shot used when pulled wide or out of position, giving the player time to recover. it’s one of the safest ways to get back into a rally.

➤ how it’s hit: the player uses an open racket face, brushing gently up the back of the ball to lift it high and deep into the court.

➤ what it looks like: • high, looping arc • lands deep near the baseline • gives plenty of time to reset position

➤ why it’s used: • to escape pressure from an aggressive opponent • to reset the rally • to recover court position safely

➤ how to spot it: when a player is stretched wide or running hard, then suddenly lifts the ball high into the air — that’s a lob defense. the opponent often stops attacking to chase it down.

➤ best surfaces: best on clay, where the high bounce and slower pace give maximum recovery time. also useful on hard courts, but less so on grass, where the ball skids low.

6.3 counterpunch forehand/backhand

➤ what it is: a controlled redirection of the opponent’s power — instead of hitting hard, the player uses the incoming speed to send the ball back deep and accurately. it’s all about timing and precision, not force.

➤ how it’s hit: the swing is compact and smooth, meeting the ball early and guiding it back with steady control. the player uses the opponent’s pace instead of creating their own.

➤ what it looks like: • clean, calm swing • medium pace but excellent placement • often aimed deep crosscourt or down the line

➤ why it’s used: • to neutralize strong hitters • to turn defense into a steady rally • to frustrate opponents who expect an easy winner

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see a player on defense who doesn’t swing wildly — instead, they redirect the ball smoothly and use the opponent’s speed. the ball comes back deep, controlled, and hard to attack.

➤ best surfaces: effective on all surfaces, but especially hard courts, where pace control is key. on clay, it’s great for long rallies; on grass, timing is trickier but still useful.

6.4 running passing shot

➤ what it is: a fast, on-the-run shot used to pass an opponent at the net. it’s both a defensive and attacking move — hit while sprinting, often with topspin, to curve the ball around or over the net player.

➤ how it’s hit: the player runs full speed and swings quickly, brushing up to add topspin and keep control while moving. usually hit crosscourt (safest angle) or down the line (riskier winner).

➤ what it looks like: • full-speed movement • quick, upward swing with topspin • ball curves crosscourt or dips fast down the line

➤ why it’s used: • to turn defense into attack • to pass net players during pressure • to keep opponents guessing about direction

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see a player sprinting wide, then suddenly flicking the ball with a fast, brushing motion — it curves or dips dramatically past the net player. the crowd usually reacts loudly when it lands cleanly.

➤ best surfaces: very effective on hard and clay courts, where players can slide or recover quickly. on grass, the fast skid makes it harder to control, but when hit cleanly, it’s spectacular.

7. specialty and trick shots — creative ways to win points

not every shot in tennis fits neatly into serves, volleys, or groundstrokes. some are special or unusual shots that players use to surprise opponents, save difficult balls, or show skill and creativity. these shots are often risky but can completely change a point if executed well.

let’s look at the most common and exciting specialty and trick shots.

7.1 drop shot

➤ what it is: a soft, short shot that lands just over the net and stops quickly. it’s used to surprise opponents who are standing far behind the baseline.

➤ how it’s hit: the racket slides gently under the ball, adding backspin, which slows it down after it lands. the swing is small and calm — more of a touch than a hit.

➤ what it looks like: • the ball floats just above the net • it lands short and stops quickly • the opponent has to sprint forward to reach it

➤ why it’s used: • to catch the opponent off guard • to change the rhythm of a rally • to bring the opponent forward and open up space behind them

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see the ball barely clear the net and die near the front of the court. the opponent usually has to rush forward and stretch to get there.

➤ best surfaces: works beautifully on clay, because the surface slows the ball even more. also effective on grass, where the ball stays low. on hard courts, the bounce is higher, so timing is key.

7.2 lob on the run

➤ what it is: a defensive lob hit while running or stretching to reach the ball. it’s used to stay in the point when under pressure from a net player.

➤ how it’s hit: the player flicks the racket upward at the last second to lift the ball high and deep over the opponent’s head.

➤ what it looks like: • fast, last-moment flick • often hit off balance • ball travels high and lands deep near the baseline

➤ why it’s used: • to escape trouble or buy time to recover • to turn defense into attack • to surprise a net player expecting an easy winner

➤ how to spot it: the player is running wide or off balance, then suddenly lifts the ball high into the air — it floats deep, forcing the opponent to turn around.

➤ best surfaces: best on clay and hard courts, where the ball bounces high. less effective on grass, where the ball stays low.

7.3 tweener (between-the-legs shot)

➤ what it is: one of tennis’s most famous trick shots — hit between the legs while running back to chase a lob.

➤ how it’s hit: the player lets the ball drop between their legs and swings the racket backward through it. it’s all about timing and confidence — one small mistake, and it’s a miss!

➤ what it looks like: • player running with their back to the net • ball passes cleanly between their legs • often a crowd-pleasing, surprise winner

➤ why it’s used: • when there’s no time to turn around for a normal shot • as a last-resort or showy move • to entertain and sometimes turn defense into attack

➤ how to spot it: you’ll see the player running back fast, facing away from the net, and suddenly swinging between their legs — it’s flashy, quick, and usually met with cheers.

➤ best surfaces: works best on hard courts, where the bounce is consistent. clay can make footing tricky, and grass can be slippery.

7.4 behind-the-back shot

➤ what it is: a spontaneous shot hit behind the back, usually when the ball comes too close to swing normally.

➤ how it’s hit: the player flicks the racket behind their body with a short, wristy motion — pure instinct and reflexes.

➤ what it looks like: • quick, unexpected movement • often hit close to the body • may look playful but keeps the point alive

➤ why it’s used: • to save an awkward shot with no space to swing • to surprise the opponent • sometimes just for fun in exhibition matches

➤ how to spot it: the player suddenly twists and swings behind their back in one smooth motion — it happens so fast, you might miss it if you blink.

➤ best surfaces: works the same on all surfaces — it’s about instinct, not bounce.

7.5 around-the-net-post shot

➤ what it is: a spectacular shot where the player hits the ball around the outside of the net post instead of over the net. it’s legal because the ball can travel outside the posts as long as it lands in the opponent’s court.

➤ how it’s hit: the player sprints wide to chase a sharply angled ball, reaches the ball outside the singles sideline, and swings low and fast to send it curling around the post. it’s usually struck with heavy sidespin or a flat “slap” to keep the trajectory low.

➤ what it looks like: • the player is pulled way off the court • the ball flies below net height, bending around the post • it often skims just above the ground — a dramatic, almost impossible angle

➤ why it’s used: • to return a ball that’s gone too wide to bring back over the net • to catch the opponent by surprise with an extreme, unexpected angle • as a highlight-reel shot in exhibitions or big ATP/WTA moments

➤ how to spot it: watch for the player running past the doubles alley, then taking a fast, side-angle swing near the net post — the ball arcs sideways instead of upward, traveling outside the normal court geometry.

➤ best surfaces: works on all surfaces, but especially dramatic on hard courts and grass where the ball stays lower. on clay, the higher bounce gives players slightly more time to set it up.

end note: there are just so many forehand and backhand types that i chose to include only one gif for each. this let me use the rest of the post to highlight other shots that beginners may find harder to recognize. plus, tumblr’s 30-gif limit meant i had to be selective.