How do we play better doubles in the wind?
Since outdoor tennis is never perfect, knowing how to play in the wind can be a strategic advantage for you or simply annoy you like it does most people.
I’ve played several mixed doubles matches over the last few months in very windy conditions. I’ve made different adjustments each time that have helped me play better which I reveal in this episode.
There certainly aren’t any hard and fast rules on how to play tennis in the wind, but there are some of the best practices.
Ultimately, it’s important to weigh your own and your partners’ strengths and weaknesses, take into consideration what I talk about, and make strategic decisions with your partner. After listening, you’ll look forward to playing in the wind and feel more confident with a winning game plan.
Show Notes from this Podcast
Here are some of the things I mention in this podcast episode:
- How does the wind affect tennis?
- Wind moves a tennis ball in ways it normally wouldn’t move
- The slower & flatter the ball is, the more the wind will affect it since speed & spin reduce its effects
- Different types of wind
- It’s important to note what direction the wind is coming to determine your strategy
- If the wind is towards you, aiming deeper is a good idea and vice versa
- It’s important to communicate with your partner about who likes to serve with the wind vs against it
- Technique & strategies for playing in the wind
- No one plays good in the wind, so the key is to play “less bad” than your opponents
- Technique changes when playing in the wind include shortening your backswing, taking more steps, hitting with more spin, taking the ball earlier, and lowering your serve toss
- Strategy changes when playing in the wind include emphasizing consistency, adjusting your lob strategy, and changing where you stand on returns
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