How to Beat a Net Rusher in Doubles
Doubles
6 min read
The net rusher applies constant pressure and makes every shot feel contested. Here's how to neutralize their aggression and turn it against them.
In doubles, the net rusher is the player who camps at the net, poaches aggressively, and makes you feel like every shot has a wall of racket in the way. They control the net position and apply constant visual and psychological pressure. Here's how to neutralize them.
Why net rushers are effective in doubles
Net position in doubles is a massive advantage. A player at the net controls angles, intercepts balls, and puts pressure on the returner and baseliner. A skilled net rusher doesn't just poach on obvious balls — they move, fake, and make you second-guess every shot.
The goal isn't to avoid them — it's to make their aggression a liability.
1. Lob over the net rusher early
The lob is the most direct weapon against a net rusher and should be used early in the match, not just as a desperation shot. A deep lob over the net rusher's backhand side puts them immediately on the defensive and resets the net position.
Even if they track it down, you've demonstrated that you'll use it. This slows their feet — they'll hesitate before charging forward, which gives you more time on groundstrokes.
2. Drive at the net rusher's body
Most net rushers are prepared for wide volleys and low digs. They're less comfortable with balls fired directly at their dominant hip. A hard ball at the body on the forehand side jams the elbow and produces weak replies.
Don't always go around the net rusher — occasionally go through them.
3. Use the alley
The alley (down the line) is often left open when a net rusher cheats toward the center in anticipation of a cross-court ball. Identify when they're creeping toward the center, and hit down the alley behind them. Even if you don't win the point outright, it resets their positioning and keeps them honest.
4. Go low at their feet
If you can't lob and don't want to risk the alley, aim at the net rusher's feet. A ball that drops at the service line forces an upward volley — the weakest shot in their arsenal. Follow up with a pass or an aggressive groundstroke to the open court.
5. Communicate with your partner
Net rushers create confusion when partners disagree on where to direct the ball. Before each point, agree on a simple priority: lob if wide, drive at body if central. Clear communication eliminates hesitation that net rushers feed on.
Summary
Situation | Strategy |
|---|---|
Net rusher at net | Lob early, establish the threat |
Center position | Drive at the body / dominant hip |
Creeping to center | Down the alley behind them |
No clear option | Low at feet, force upward volley |
Mental | Communicate with partner, eliminate hesitation |