Tennis in Windy Conditions

Identify the Wind

Note direction at the start of every match -- toss a few blades of grass or watch the net cord. The wind direction relative to your court orientation tells you which end is your defensive end (wind in face) and attacking end (wind at back).

Wind in Your Face

Defensive end. Hit deeper -- wind shortens shots, so aim 60cm closer to baseline than usual. More topspin -- wind doesn't affect spin-heavy balls as much. Lower serve toss -- high tosses get blown around. Tactical: use this end to defend, get balls back, force opponent errors. Avoid drop shots and slices that float.

Wind at Your Back

Attacking end. Aim shorter -- wind carries shots long. Aim mid-court or services lines if you usually aim baseline. Slice approaches work brilliantly -- wind keeps them low. Be aggressive with first serves -- wind adds free pace. Tactical: use this end to attack, hit winners, finish points fast.

Crosswind

Hardest to manage. Aim into the wind's pull -- if wind blows left to right, aim 1-2 metres left of target so the wind brings it back to centre. Lobs and high-bouncing shots are unpredictable in crosswind -- keep balls low.

Serving in Wind

Lower toss by 30-60cm. Quicker contact after toss apex. Spin serves over flat -- kick and slice fight wind better. Many pros adjust to mainly slice serves in heavy wind. See serve tips.

Mental Game in Wind

Both players face the same conditions. Wind frustrates equally -- the player who accepts it fastest wins. Don't complain, don't curse the wind, don't blame errors on it. Adjust and play. See our mental game guide.

Gear for Windy Days

Heavier balls (premium pressurised) cut through wind better than older or pressureless. Headband keeps hair out of eyes when whipped around. Cap with secure adjustment. Avoid anything that flaps loose.

Related

Singles Strategy | Serve Tips | Wet Court Recovery.