Good players seem to have more time than everyone else. Part of it is footwork, but much of it is anticipation: they read where the ball is going before it leaves the opponent’s racquet. This is a skill you can develop.
Watch the body, not just the ball
Before contact, your opponent’s body gives clues:
- Position: a player stretched wide or off balance will usually play crosscourt or defensively; a player balanced inside the court has more options.
- Shoulders and hips: open shoulders often mean crosscourt; closed shoulders suggest down the line.
- Racquet preparation: a high backswing hints at a slice or drop shot; a low racquet below the ball means topspin or a lob.
- The toss on serve: a toss further to the side or behind can signal a slice or kick.
Learn their patterns
Most players repeat themselves, especially under pressure. Notice where they serve on big points, which way they go on their favorite shot, how they react when you come to the net. Write it down at changeovers if it helps. After a few games, you can start positioning yourself one step toward their preferred option.
Court awareness
Tactical awareness also means knowing where you are and what the situation allows. Ask yourself on each ball: am I attacking, neutral or defending? Where is the open court? Where is my opponent likely to recover to? Good positioning, recovering to the middle of your opponent’s possible angles rather than to the center mark, makes the court feel smaller.
Adapting to situations
Conditions change during a match: wind picks up, the sun moves, your opponent changes tactics, you get tired. Adapting is part of awareness. If a pattern stops working, notice it early and adjust, as explained in building a tennis game plan.
How to train anticipation
- watch professional matches without the sound, trying to call the direction before each shot;
- in practice, ask your partner to vary direction randomly and work on reacting early;
- play points where you must call out your opponent’s shot direction as they hit.
For dealing with specific styles, read how to play against different opponents. Better anticipation also depends on fast feet; see moving better on court.
