UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES – MEN’S, WOMEN’S, AND MIXED DOUBLES
As we move into the cooler months and the fall season of doubles play, it’s the perfect time to explore what truly makes men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles unique. While the scoring is the same, the style, strategy, and chemistry on court can be very different. Recognizing these distinctions not only helps players perform better but also deepens appreciation for the game’s variety.
MEN’S DOUBLES
Men’s doubles is often defined by pace, power, and aggression.
• Heavy serving and quick reflexes: Points tend to start and finish fast, with both players looking to take control of the net early.
• Frequent poaching: Movement and anticipation are key—men often cross at the net to apply pressure and finish points quickly.
• Baseline consistency takes a back seat: Instead of long rallies, the emphasis is on first-strike tennis—serve, return, and volley.
WOMEN’S DOUBLES
Women’s doubles, by contrast, features precision, placement, and extended rallies.
• More developed point construction: Women typically build points with consistency, patience, and well-timed transitions.
• Angle and placement over power: Smart positioning and shot selection outweigh sheer pace.
• Strong teamwork and communication: Doubles formations and tactics are deliberate, with both players reading and supporting one another through longer exchanges.
MIXED DOUBLES: WHERE STYLES MEET
When the two styles come together, the dynamics shift. The key to success in mixed doubles isn’t just skill—it’s adaptability and understanding each other’s strengths.
HOW MEN ADJUST IN MIXED DOUBLES
• Protect and support: Men often cover a bit more court and use their pace to set up their partner rather than dominate the rally.
• Soften the game: Not every shot needs to be struck at full pace—well-placed volleys and smart angles create more opportunities.
• Use variety: Lobs, drop shots, and change of spin keep the rhythm balanced and prevent the pace from overwhelming the point.
• Encourage and communicate: Confidence builds through support, not speed.
HOW WOMEN ADJUST IN MIXED DOUBLES
• Own the net: Women who move forward with confidence put immediate pressure on the opponents and keep the team connected.
• Trust in positioning: Allowing the male partner to take a bit more space when needed frees up the woman to anticipate and react.
• Stay assertive: Mixed doubles works best when both partners stay active—bold volleys and decisive returns keep the rhythm even.
• Direct the ball smartly: Targeting the weaker side, using depth, and changing direction at the right time can neutralize the opponent’s power.
THE TAKEAWAY
Mixed doubles is about balance. The best pairs learn to blend the intensity of the men’s game with the intelligence and precision of the women’s game. When both players play to their strengths—and trust one another—the result is not only more effective tennis but also more enjoyable matches for everyone.
So as we gear up for our upcoming mixed doubles socials and tournaments this month, remember: great mixed doubles isn’t about who hits harder—it’s about who plays smarter together.
