Doubles Q&A Part 2: Volley Targets (Line vs Cross), Return Sides, & Getting Beat Down the Middle

In part 2 of our listener Q&A, I answer questions about volleying cross court vs down the line, choosing return sides, choosing return tactics, and more.

(Find Part 1 of our Q&A here)

These questions were submitted from 3.0 to 4.5 doubles players from around the world.

• When should I volley crosscourt vs down the line?
• Should the stronger player return from the ad side? What about a lefty & righty? (This is one of the biggest myths in doubles!)
• I'm having trouble against teams who rush the net. What should I do?
• I can't decide if I should hit a topspin, slice, bunt, or lob return. Any advice?
• My partner (at baseline) and I (at net) keep getting beat through the middle. Who should cover it?

I have advice for all of these players, including further resources to learn more and continue improving below.

• Dan Kiernan Interview
• Illegal Volley Drill
• Net Play Strategy Ebook
• Steve Smith Interview
• Craig O'Shannessy Interview
• Return Strategy Ebook
• Best Tennis Training Aids
• Backswing Solution - for volleys & returns

**Doubles Strategy Course** This video course will teach you the best doubles tactics for serving, returning, rallying, and approaching so that you’ll have a winning plan for every point.

• 25 Winning Doubles Tactics Video Course:https://the-tennis-tribe.teachable.com/p/25-winning-doubles-tactics

**Doubles Ebooks** These guides offer proven advice to improve your doubles strategy.

• 25 Winning Doubles Tactics:  https://www.thetennistribe.com/25-winning-doubles-tactics/
• Return Strategy for Doubles: https://www.thetennistribe.com/return-strategy-for-doubles-ebook/
• Serve Strategy for Doubles: https://www.thetennistribe.com/serve-strategy-for-doubles-ebook/
• Net Play Strategy for Doubles: https://www.thetennistribe.com/net-play-strategy-for-doubles-ebook/

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**Other Free Doubles Content**

• Serve Strategy Cheatsheet
• Return Strategy Cheatsheet
• Serve Strategy 101 - Video Course