Playing tennis on grass courts requires some specific strategies and adjustments due to the unique characteristics of the surface. Here are a few strategies to help you succeed on grass courts:
Serve and Volley: Grass courts tend to offer faster and lower bounces, making it advantageous to employ a serve and volley strategy. Use your powerful serve to set up opportunities to rush the net and finish points with volleys before your opponent can adjust to the low bounce.
Play Aggressive and Attack: Grass courts reward aggressive play. Look for opportunities to take control of the point early, using your shots to put pressure on your opponent. Take advantage of the quicker court speed to hit flatter and faster shots that stay low and skid through the surface.
Master Slice and Drop Shots: The low bounce and slickness of grass make slice shots and drop shots highly effective. Utilize the slice backhand to keep the ball low and skidding, making it challenging for your opponent to handle. Incorporate drop shots strategically to catch your opponent off guard and force them to move quickly on the slippery surface.
Stay Low and Adjust Footwork: Grass courts demand quick footwork and the ability to stay low. Bend your knees and maintain a low center of gravity to handle the lower bounces. Be prepared to make quick adjustments and take smaller steps to maintain balance and stability.
Adapt to the Surface: Grass courts can be unpredictable, especially as matches progress and the surface wears down. Stay flexible and adapt your game as needed. Adjust your timing, footwork, and shot selection based on the changing conditions, such as how the ball is bouncing and skidding.
Practice on Grass Courts: If possible, practice on grass courts to familiarize yourself with the unique playing conditions. Getting accustomed to the lower bounce, quicker speed, and different ball behavior will give you an advantage when playing on grass.
To learn more about how to construct and maintain a grass tennis court, watch this interview with LaMaurice Gardner, the former head greens keeper at the Wessen Lawn Tennis Club in Pontiac, Michigan here https://youtu.be/4TuOeZE4EUM via YouTube
