Every doubles player has heard it: down the middle solves the riddle. It's the oldest piece of advice in recreational doubles, and the data backs it up.
Here are the 4 most important strategic reasons to use the middle of the court:
The net is lowest in the middle. The net is 6 inches lower at the center strap than at the sides. Every ball hit down the middle clears a lower net than a ball hit to the corners or alleys — which means more margin for error on every single shot.
It forces a communication breakdown between opponents. When the ball goes between two players, both must decide instantly who takes it. At the club level, that split-second hesitation produces more errors than almost any other tactic. A wide ball gives your opponents clarity. A middle ball creates confusion — and confusion wins points.
It removes angles. A ball hit wide gives your opponents options. A ball hit through the middle takes those options away. Given the difficulty of creating an angle from the middle of the court, a center ball is most likely to return through the middle, which means net players can better anticipate and move to intercept it.
It forces difficult volleys. A low ball across the center strap typically lands at the opposing net player's feet or shoelaces — forcing her to volley upward rather than punch down. That upward volley pops up and becomes an easy put-away for your team. And the team that controls the net wins 80% or more points.
When to Go Down the Middle — And When Not To!
Of course, not every shot should be hit to the middle of the court. Avoid the middle when you have a clear opening on a wide ball and can execute a high-percentage angled volley or confidently hit a groundstroke wide or down the line.
You should choose the middle when:
Your opponents are both at the net. A low shot across the center strap can create a communication breakdown and force an upward volley that can then be put away.
You’re at the net in an offensive position. Craig O’Shannessy, former strategy analyst for Novak Djokovic, advises that when you are at the net and in control, place your volleys in this order of priority: down the middle, out wide, touch angle.
You're not sure what to do! When in doubt, go low middle: for percentages, confusion, the boomerang effect, and multiplying opportunities.
