If you’ve ever played against a tennis pusher, you know how frustrating it can be. These players rarely take risks, focusing on consistency rather than aggressive play. They return every ball, forcing long rallies and waiting for you to make mistakes.
Even players with strong offensive games may find it difficult to overcome a pusher’s defense as the match wears them out mentally. So how to beat a pusher in tennis? Playing smarter is more important than just playing harder.
In this article, we’ll explore five proven tactics that will help you beat a pusher and take control of the game.
Table of Contents
1. Use a Short Crosscourt Backhand Slice
Pushers tend to stand deep behind the baseline, relying on their defensive positioning to cover the court. This gives them more time to react to shots but also leaves them vulnerable to well-placed short shots. One effective way to disrupt their game is by using a short crosscourt backhand slice.
Why It Works
The low, short slice forces the pusher to move forward, which is uncomfortable for players who thrive in baseline rallies. It pulls them out of their defensive stance, making them more likely to make an error or return a weak shot that you can easily attack.
How to Execute
- Aim for a soft, low slice that barely clears the net and lands short in the service box.
- Focus on placing the ball wide on the court, angling it away from the pusher’s comfortable hitting zone.
- Practice this shot to ensure you can hit it consistently without giving them time to recover.
By using this tactic, you’ll force the pusher to come forward, where they are less effective, and open up opportunities for you to finish the point.
2. Attack Their Second Serve Aggressively
Pushers often rely on safe, soft serves, especially their second serve, which is typically weaker and more conservative. This presents a prime opportunity for you to take control of the point from the very start.
Why It Works
By attacking the pusher’s second serve, you can put them on the back foot early in the point, taking away their ability to prolong rallies. This forces them to hit defensive shots, allowing you to dictate the pace. read this to hit a perfect serve…
How to Execute
- Stand a bit closer to the baseline when returning a second serve to cut off angles and reduce their reaction time.
- Aim to hit deep into their court, either down the middle or crosscourt, to make them scramble.
- Utilize topspin or a flat drive to keep the ball heavy and difficult to handle.
Being aggressive on the second serve return is one of the most effective ways to disrupt a pusher’s rhythm and seize control of the match.
3. Utilize the Drop Shot to Surprise Them
Pushers are typically comfortable with long rallies from the baseline but struggle when forced to move forward. The drop shot can be an excellent weapon to break their rhythm and catch them off guard.
Why It Works
Drop shots force the pusher out of their comfort zone, requiring them to move quickly to the net. Since they prefer to stay back, they are often late to the ball, leaving you with a chance to hit an easy winner or pass them. read this to improve your drop shot…
How to Execute
- Use the drop shot sparingly, saving it for moments when the pusher is far behind the baseline.
- Keep the shot soft and low, barely clearing the net, so it bounces short and forces them to rush forward.
- After hitting the drop shot, be ready to follow up with a passing shot or easy volley, depending on their response.
By mixing in well-timed drop shots, you can keep the pusher guessing and disrupt their defensive game plan.
4. Serve Wide and Follow Up with a Volley
Pushers are known for their ability to return balls consistently, but they often struggle when stretched wide. Serving wide and following up with a volley is a great way to take them out of their rhythm and finish points quickly.
Why It Works
A wide serve forces the pusher to move off the court, opening up space for you to follow up with an easy volley. Since pushers tend to stand far behind the baseline, they are often late to cover wide angles, making this strategy highly effective.
How to Execute
- When serving, aim for the wide corners of the service box, targeting the sidelines.
- After serving wide, immediately approach the net and look for a short volley to finish the point.
- Keep your volley short and angled, making it difficult for the pusher to recover.
This tactic not only wins you quick points but also frustrates the pusher, as they are forced out of position and unable to rely on their defensive consistency.
5. Open Up the Court with Angled Groundstrokes
Pushers love deep, straight shots that they can comfortably return. However, when forced to move diagonally across the court, they often lose their defensive structure. Hitting angled groundstrokes with topspin can help you break down their defense.
Why It Works
Angled shots pull the pusher off the court, creating openings for you to finish the point. By moving them side to side, you prevent them from settling into long rallies and force them to cover more ground, which increases the likelihood of errors.
How to Execute
- Use topspin to generate sharp angles on your forehand and backhand, making it harder for the pusher to reach the ball.
- Aim for wide targets, forcing the pusher to hit from uncomfortable positions and making it harder for them to return deep.
- Mix up your shots, alternating between deep groundstrokes and angled shots to keep them on their toes.
Opening up the court with angled groundstrokes allows you to dictate play and take advantage of the pusher’s weak spots.
Bonus Strategy: Use Angled Approach Shots
Approach shots are a great way to transition from defense to offense, but instead of hitting them straight, try using angles. This forces the pusher to cover more ground and gives you an advantage at the net.
How to Execute
- Approach the net using a wide angle, making the pusher run diagonally.
- Follow up with a strong volley or overhead to finish the point.
This strategy works because it takes away the pusher’s ability to reset the rally, putting you in control.
Conclusion
How to Beat a Pusher in Tennis comes down to patience, discipline, and smart tactics. Instead of getting frustrated, focus on these five proven strategies: short crosscourt slices, aggressive returns, well-timed drop shots, wide serves followed by volleys, and angled groundstrokes. These tactics will help you keep a pusher on the defensive.
Remember, consistency is key. With practice, you’ll master how to beat a tennis pusher, winning more points and staying in control. Apply these strategies, and soon you’ll confidently outplay any defensive player.
FAQs
What is a tennis pusher?
A tennis pusher is a player who relies on consistent, defensive play rather than aggressive shots. They focus on returning every ball and waiting for their opponent to make mistakes.
How to Beat a Pusher in Tennis?
To beat a tennis pusher, use strategies like hitting a short crosscourt backhand slice, attacking their second serve, and utilizing drop shots to disrupt their rhythm.
What are some effective shots against a tennis pusher?
Effective shots include short crosscourt slices, drop shots, and angled groundstrokes. These shots force the pusher to move and can help you gain control of the point.
How do I deal with a pusher’s defensive play?
Play aggressively by attacking their weaker second serve, using height and topspin to push them back, and taking the ball early to limit their recovery time.
What should I focus on when playing against a pusher?
Focus on being patient, constructing points thoughtfully, and mixing up your shots to keep the pusher off balance. Use a combination of aggressive and strategic play to break their defensive setup.
Why is it difficult to beat a pusher?
Pushers are difficult to beat because they excel in consistency and patience. They make very few errors and force opponents into long rallies, often leading to mistakes.
How do I use a drop shot effectively against a pusher?
Use the drop shot when the pusher is positioned deep behind the baseline. Keep it soft and low to force them to rush forward, and be prepared to follow up with a volley or passing shot.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when playing against a pusher?
Common mistakes include overhitting, becoming frustrated, and playing passively. Avoid trying to win the point with pace alone, and focus on strategy and placement to outmaneuver the pusher.
How can I improve my overhead shots to counter a pusher?
Practice your overhead shots by positioning yourself correctly under lobs and hitting with depth. Work on keeping your non-dominant arm up for balance and hitting the ball before it bounces for better timing.
