Use drives to pressure opponents

A drive is a powerful, fast-paced shot that travels low over the net and deep into the opponent's court, forcing them into a defensive position. Drives are the offensive counterpart to the soft game.

When to Drive

• The ball bounces high and short, giving you an attackable angle
• You want to keep opponents pinned at the baseline
• Your opponent is off-balance or out of position
• As a third shot when the return lands short with a high bounce

Tips

• Stay relaxed throughout the shot and follow through with complete paddle extension
• Avoid driving when you are deep behind the baseline — opponents have too much time to react and you can't advance to the net
• Target drives at your opponent's feet or the gap between doubles partners
• Higher balls lead to drives, lower balls lead to drops