Opening the Court: Pattern 2

[John Yandell]

Let's get your thoughts on George Zink's second article, "Opening the Court: Pattern 2"

[klacr]

A great pattern to use against speedy players. Attack deep down the middle giving them no angle. at the sign of the first short ball you can pounce. Del Potro does this affectively against Nadal.

Kyle LaCroix USPTA
Boca Raton

[dipperhitter]

Also against slow 4.0 players

[paddleguy1]

I just traveled with my son to the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. You can’t believe how many game plans from top pros involve going up the middle. Whether it’s a return of serve, or a pattern like this one it’s important to know that it can be a game plan. It takes away the angles and makes your opponent try to create more. Then taking that 4th ball off the court mixes in the surprise. I truly believe this works at every level. So whether you are an inspiring junior or adult player this pattern is perfect! If anyone has any more questions about these, please post.
Thank you.
George Zink

[stotty]

I just traveled with my son to the French Open, Wimbledon and US Open. You can’t believe how many game plans from top pros involve going up the middle. Whether it’s a return of serve, or a pattern like this one it’s important to know that it can be a game plan. It takes away the angles and makes your opponent try to create more. Then taking that 4th ball off the court mixes in the surprise. I truly believe this works at every level. So whether you are an inspiring junior or adult player this pattern is perfect! If anyone has any more questions about these, please post.
Thank you.
George Zink

Very true. I always tell my students the middle third of the court is the biggest target and the one they are least likely to miss. Just be sure not to hit short or, in a good standard at least, the ploy backfires. Deep down the middle is a great place to go.