Why do I keep missing overheads?

Most misses come from not turning sideways early, letting the ball drift behind you, or swinging too hard. Get set early, move your feet so the ball stays in front, and focus on clean contact.

Is an overhead the same as a serve?

The motion is similar, with a continental grip and contact high in front, but the backswing is shorter and you have to move to the ball first. Improving your serve usually helps your overhead too.

How to Hit an Overhead Smash

7 video lessons

Turn early, point at the ball and move your feet under it.

Quick answer & tips ▾

As soon as you see a lob, turn sideways and bring the racquet up early, already behind your head, while your free hand points up at the ball. Move your feet (side shuffles or crossover steps) so the ball stays slightly in front of your hitting shoulder.

Make contact high and in front, as on a serve, and do not over-swing. Placement wins more overheads than raw power. For very high or very deep lobs, let the ball bounce first.

Key tips

Turn sideways first, before you start backing up.
Keep your free hand up and pointing at the ball.
Hit to big targets at three-quarter pace.
Let very high lobs bounce and then smash them.

FAQ

Why do I keep missing overheads?: Most misses come from not turning sideways early, letting the ball drift behind you, or swinging too hard. Get set early, move your feet so the ball stays in front, and focus on clean contact.
Is an overhead the same as a serve?: The motion is similar, with a continental grip and contact high in front, but the backswing is shorter and you have to move to the ball first. Improving your serve usually helps your overhead too.