When you’re in an even trading situation from neutral groundstroke position in the outer third of the court, you should work on having at least two options to give yourself an advantage over an opponent with similar tennis ability.

1. Drive Rally Ball

Most important in a neutral trading situation is your ability to have a reliable, consistent deep-drive rally ball to sustain the rally.

Your ability to sustain the rally by driving the ball deep, cross court with zero mistakes BETTER than your opponent will increase the chance that your opponent will end the point with an unforced error or present you with more offensive opportunities.

You should be able to hit a medium-speed groundstroke with topspin for 20-30 seconds without error. If you’re unable to sustain this level of consistency, it’s something to practice with your pro or a partner who can do the same.

2. Hit a “Heavier” Ball

In addition to the ability to hit a consistent drive rally ball, you should be able to mix in a ball with heavier topspin. This heavier shot should still be aimed deep, cross-court and you can use it alone or with the drive rally ball.

Again, you should be able to maintain a deep, cross-court rally for at least 20-30 seconds. If you’re not sure how to execute a heavier ball, you should work with your pro on this.

Once you have mastered the ability to exercise each of these options, you’ll have a distinct advantage over your competitors who either can’t maintain the rally or don’t understand these options.