Using the Topspin Lob

Because of their historical reputation as shots which require tremendous skill and practice, less competitive players often do not attempt to learn what are considered “specialty” shots.

With today's technologically superior racquets and improved strings, hitting specialty shots like the topspin lob is much easier than it was in the days of heavier, wooden racquets.

During singles play, the lob can be used defensively to buy a player who is in trouble time, or to keep an attacking player off the net. It can also be used defensively as the final shot in a combination of shots used to wrong foot or freeze an opponent at the net.

In doubles, the lob is used primarily to keep opponents off the net, and to allow the lobbing team to take the net.

After you have taught your players the technical skills necessary for hitting the topspin lob (see this month's skill-building drill), it will be necessary to teach them when to use it.

Following are several situations which are well-suited for the use of the topspin lob.