Is a tweener a legal shot?

Yes. Any shot hit with the racquet before the second bounce is legal, including between the legs.

Who invented the tweener?

It was popularized in the 1970s and 80s by players such as Guillermo Vilas and Yannick Noah, and later made famous on tour by Roger Federer and Nick Kyrgios.

Is the tweener a smart shot?

Only as a last resort when chasing a lob. Turning around for a normal shot is safer whenever you have time.

How to Hit a Tweener in Tennis

8 video lessons

Run the lob down, stay ahead of it, flick down between your legs.

Quick answer & tips ▾

A tweener is a between-the-legs shot used when a lob goes over your head and you can't turn around in time. Sprint back along the line of the ball, staying slightly to its side, and keep running so the ball drops in front of you rather than behind.

As the ball falls to around knee height, take a wide stride, keep your wrist relaxed, and swing the racquet straight down and back up between your legs with a short, quick flick. Aim high and deep, often as a lob, rather than going for a winner. Practice it with soft feeds first, since timing matters more than power.

Key tips

Use it only when you can't turn and hit a normal shot.
Keep running so the ball stays in front of you.
Let the ball drop to about knee height before swinging.
Use a short, relaxed downward flick and aim high.

FAQ

Is a tweener a legal shot?: Yes. Any shot hit with the racquet before the second bounce is legal, including between the legs.
Who invented the tweener?: It was popularized in the 1970s and 80s by players such as Guillermo Vilas and Yannick Noah, and later made famous on tour by Roger Federer and Nick Kyrgios.
Is the tweener a smart shot?: Only as a last resort when chasing a lob. Turning around for a normal shot is safer whenever you have time.