Down the Middle Solves the Tennis Riddle

In the fast-paced world of tennis doubles, where split-second decisions can dictate the outcome of a point, one timeless piece of advice stands out among coaches: aim down the middle. 

Often summarized in the saying "down the middle solves the riddle," this strategy encourages teams to direct their shots toward the center of the court rather than the outer alleys or sharp angles. 

Experts and players alike emphasize its effectiveness, particularly when opponents are at the net or when players are looking for higher-percentage plays. 

Here are three key reasons why focusing shots toward the middle can give doubles teams a significant advantage: 

1. The net is lower in the middle: A regulation tennis net measures 3 feet (36 inches) at the center strap but rises to 3.5 feet (42 inches) at the posts. This intentional sag—due to the physics of tension and the width of the support poles—makes the middle the lowest and easiest point to clear the net safely. Hitting down the middle reduces the risk of clipping the net on volleys, ground strokes, or aggressive drives, allowing players to swing more confidently with a greater margin for error. 
2. Less margin for error compared to hitting toward the outside alleys: The doubles court is wider than the singles court (36 feet versus 27 feet). Still, the outer alleys represent narrower targets when aiming cross court or down the line from most positions. Shots directed toward the sidelines require precise placement and often more power or spin to avoid going long or wide. In contrast, aiming for the middle provides a larger effective target area—essentially splitting the court in half—making it a safer, higher-percentage option. This is especially valuable under pressure, as it can minimize unforced errors while keeping the rally alive. 
3. A better chance to win the point as opponents take on more risk: Hitting the ball down the middle forces opponents to decide who will take the shot, often creating confusion or hesitation—especially if one player has a forehand and the other has a backhand in the center, or if communication breaks down. 

This strategy also neutralizes sharp angles: from the middle, the options for returns are more limited, reducing opponents' ability to hit winners cross court or down the line. As a result, they must often play defensively or make riskier passes, increasing the likelihood of errors. 

This "middle-first" mindset has long been a staple of doubles strategy, praised in coaching circles and echoed in online tennis communities for its simplicity and effectiveness. 

Whether you're a recreational league player or competing at higher levels, embracing the riddle-solving power of down-the-middle shots can transform close matches into dominant performances. 

As one longstanding doubles tactic: when in doubt, go down the middle—and watch the wins start to accumulate.

Written by Coach Koko (Karen Hackett)