When should I hit down the line?

Common moments are a short or comfortable ball, when your opponent is pulled wide, or when you want to break a cross court pattern. Avoid it when you are stretched or off balance.

Why do my down the line shots go wide?

Usually the contact point is too early, which pulls the ball cross court and out, or you are aiming too close to the line. Contact a touch later and aim further inside.

How to Hit Down the Line in Tennis

4 video lessons

Pick the right ball, hit a touch later, and leave margin.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Down the line is a riskier shot than cross court because the net is higher in the middle and the court is shorter along the sideline. That is why it works best when you are balanced and the ball is comfortable, not when you are stretched or under pressure.

To send the ball down the line, let the ball come a little further back so you meet it slightly later than a cross court shot, keep your shoulders turned a bit longer, and aim a few feet inside the sideline. Use it to change direction once you have a rally pattern going, or to attack a short ball.

Key tips

Go down the line from a balanced, comfortable position.
Make contact a little later than on a cross court shot.
Aim well inside the sideline and over the low part of the net only when safe.
Use it to change direction, then be ready for the reply.

FAQ

When should I hit down the line?: Common moments are a short or comfortable ball, when your opponent is pulled wide, or when you want to break a cross court pattern. Avoid it when you are stretched or off balance.
Why do my down the line shots go wide?: Usually the contact point is too early, which pulls the ball cross court and out, or you are aiming too close to the line. Contact a touch later and aim further inside.