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How to Improve from 4.0 to 4.5: Analyzing the Technical & Tactical Differences Between Levels

Will Boucek ยท August 15, 2023

Today we discuss the framework a 4.0 player can use to improve their game and become a 4.5 player. Still, the principles in this episode apply to anyone looking to improve their level.

Tennis player practicing to improve
Veronika Kudermetova practices at the 2022 Indian Wells Masters.

Note: 4.0 & 4.5 are level-based ratings created by the United States Tennis Association.

  • USTA describes a 4.0 player as: “This player has dependable strokes with directional control and the ability to alter depth of shots on both forehand and backhand sides during moderately paced play. This player also has the ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots, and volleys with success. This player occasionally forces errors when serving. Points may be lost due to impatience. Teamwork in doubles is evident.”
  • They describe a 4.5 player as: “This player can vary the use of pace and spins, has effective court coverage, can control depth of shots, and is able to develop game plans according to strengths and weaknesses. This player can hit the first serve with power and accuracy and can place the second serve. This player tends to overhit on difficult shots. Aggressive net play is common in doubles.”

I have my own opinions on the differences based on my experience watching and playing at the 4.5 level over the last 5+ years around the USTA Texas Section. The framework that I go over in this episode comes from that experience and learning from some of the best coaches and players in the world.


25 Winning Doubles Tactics

Over 50 video doubles lessons with 60+ doubles points analyzed, guaranteed to help you play smarter & win more matches.

Learn More >>>
Teaching doubles strategy
Will Boucek is an ATP & WTA Doubles Strategy Analyst. In this course, he teaches you 25 doubles tactics you can implement in your club-level match tomorrow.

Show Notes from this Podcast

Here are some of the things I mention in this podcast episode:

  • Differences Between 4.0s and 4.5s
    • Mechanical strokes tend to disappear at 4.5
    • More spin/pace, kick serves, & heavier groundstrokes
    • Serves/overheads are much better, resulting in less lobbing
    • 4.0s usually have one or two good shots and rely on them
  • Technique vs. Tactics
    • Technique issues revolve around hitting better strokes, often the backhand for 4.0s
    • Tactical issues revolve around things like hitting too many down-the-line shots, taking low percentage shots, and missing too many first serves
  • Ways to Improve
    • Watch/play against people better than you and film it if possible
    • Improve technique with a ball machine or coach by improving your technique and getting lots of reps
    • Find a good coach and use synced videos to expedite improvements
  • Listen: Jack Broudy Podcast Interview
  • Read: Jack’s Website
  • Tennis Analytics Courses

About Will Boucek

Will Boucek is the Founder & CEO of Tennis Tribe. With over two decades of experience playing & coaching tennis, Will now works as a doubles strategy analyst for ATP & WTA tour players and coaches. Will helps tennis players at every level play better doubles through smarter strategy. He also has expertise in tennis racquets & gear, testing the latest products from Wilson, Babolat, Head, Prince, and other tennis brands.

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About Will Boucek

Will is an ATP & WTA doubles strategy analyst. He helps doubles players at every level of tennis improve their game using smarter strategy & tactics. He has worked with players at the USTA 3.0 level, all the way up to Wimbledon and the US Open.

"I think most club-level players focus too much on technique and not enough on strategy. You probably don't have 10 hours per week to improve your serve... but you can improve your court position, movement, and shot selection immediately!"
- Will Boucek, Tennis Tribe Founder

25 Winning Doubles Tactics

Teaching doubles strategy

This course has over 50 video doubles lessons with 60+ doubles points analyzed, guaranteed to help you play smarter & win more matches.


Learn More >>>

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