Doubles is a different game from singles. Points are shorter, the net is more important, and the team that communicates better often beats the team with better individual strokes.
Get to the net
The fundamental rule of doubles is that the team controlling the net usually wins the point. Volleying from close to the net gives you sharp angles and takes time away from your opponents. Look for chances to move forward together after a good serve or a deep return.
Serving and returning
First-serve percentage matters even more than in singles, because a weak second serve gives the opposing net player an easy volley. Serve to the body or down the middle often; it reduces the returner’s angles.
On the return, the default target is crosscourt, low and away from the net player. A lob over the net player is a useful alternative, especially if they crowd the net.
Positions and formations
- One up, one back: common at club level; the net player looks for volleys while the baseline player rallies crosscourt.
- Both up: the most aggressive and effective formation when you can get there.
- Both back: a defensive formation useful against very strong net players or when returning big serves.
- Australian and I-formation: the server’s partner stands on the same side as the server, changing the angles and confusing the returner.
Poaching
The net player crossing to intercept a crosscourt ball is called poaching. It puts pressure on the opponents and wins easy points. Agree beforehand: some teams use hand signals behind the back to plan poaches on the serve. The server must cover the open side when the partner crosses.
Communication
Talk constantly: “mine”, “yours”, “switch”, “bounce”. Agree on who covers the middle (often the player with a forehand there, or the player who hit the last ball crosscourt). Encourage each other after lost points; negative body language spreads quickly to your partner. Between points, a quick word on the plan keeps you on the same page.
Choosing and playing with a partner
Complementary partners often work best: one solid at the baseline, one strong at the net; one right-hander and one left-hander so both forehands cover the middle. Above all, choose someone you enjoy playing with.
Volley skills are central to doubles; see improving your net game. Lobs are an important doubles weapon too, as explained in lobbing well.
