When should you lob in tennis?

When your opponent is crowding the net, when you are pulled wide or deep and need time to recover, or to change the rhythm of a rally. It is especially effective in doubles against a team that is close to the net.

What is the difference between a defensive and an offensive lob?

A defensive lob is hit very high, usually with little spin or some backspin, to buy time. An offensive lob is lower and faster with topspin, meant to win the point outright by getting over the net player before they can react.

How to Hit a Lob in Tennis

4 video lessons

Get the ball over the net player, on defense or on the attack.

Quick answer & tips ▾

There are two main lobs. The defensive lob is a high, controlled shot hit with an open racquet face, almost like a volley, to buy time when you are in trouble. The offensive topspin lob looks like a passing shot, then climbs over the net player and dips down quickly.

For either one, aim high and deep, ideally over your opponent's backhand side. For the topspin lob, let the racquet drop lower than usual and swing steeply up the back of the ball with a high finish.

Key tips

Use the lob when your opponent is close to the net or you are stretched.
Height first: a high lob that lands mid-court is better than a low one that gets smashed.
Disguise the topspin lob with your normal groundstroke preparation.
After a good lob, move forward: the reply is often weak.

FAQ

When should you lob in tennis?: When your opponent is crowding the net, when you are pulled wide or deep and need time to recover, or to change the rhythm of a rally. It is especially effective in doubles against a team that is close to the net.
What is the difference between a defensive and an offensive lob?: A defensive lob is hit very high, usually with little spin or some backspin, to buy time. An offensive lob is lower and faster with topspin, meant to win the point outright by getting over the net player before they can react.