Tennis Backhand Volley: Ultimate Guide

The tennis backhand volley is one of the most technically demanding shots in tennis — and one of the most rewarding when done well. The three keys that separate players who are comfortable at net from those who avoid it: non-dominant hand use, balance through contact and handling balls hit directly at the body. This guide breaks down the backhand volley from setup to contact — written by Randy Reynolds, certified tennis instructor and director of Tennis Nation at Reno Tennis Center.

This guide covers the differences between the tennis backhand volley and the forehand volley. Please refer back to the full volley technique guide to review the fundamentals before continuing.

Tennis Backhand Volley: Non-Dominant Hand

The tennis backhand volley is very similar to the forehand volley — with one key difference: the non-dominant hand stays on the racquet longer. Knowing how to use it makes a significant difference in consistency and control.

The non-dominant hand serves three functions on the backhand volley:

• Supports the racquet head during preparation
• Guides the racquet back slightly to open up the racquet face
• Acts as a wall — prevents the racquet from being taken back too far

Two equally effective approaches:

• Elbow up: hold the throat of the racquet and lift the non-dominant elbow up and away from the body — creating a wall that stops the racquet from going back further
• Elbows down: both elbows down in front of the body inside shoulder width — the body itself acts as the wall

Both work. Choose based on individual preference.

Backhand Volley Technique: Staying on Balance

Once the racquet begins swinging forward toward contact, the non-dominant hand releases from the throat and travels in the opposite direction. This counterbalancing movement:

• Keeps your shoulders turned sideways through contact
• Keeps your body on balance through the shot

This detail is easy to overlook — but it is critical for consistent, controlled backhand volleys. Players who drop or ignore the non-dominant hand often end up off-balance with an inconsistent racquet face angle at contact.

Tennis Backhand Volley: Strength and Comfort

Players who are younger or lack sufficient strength for a one-handed backhand volley may choose to volley with two hands on the grip:

• Hitting hand: continental grip
• Non-dominant hand: grasps the grip similarly to the two-handed backhand grip

The two-handed backhand volley provides more support and builds confidence at net. However, it sacrifices reach — and in most cases players should transition to the one-handed version when strength and comfort allow.

Tennis Backhand Volley: Returning the Ball Hit at Your Body

There will be times when you don’t have time to set up for a traditional volley — when two players are volleying aggressively at net, or an opponent drills the ball directly at you. When this happens, the backhand volley is typically the best option.

From the ready position:

• Bring your hitting elbow up and away from your body immediately
• Get the racquet face facing the net and out in front of your midsection
• Drive through the ball with your shoulder — time permitting

If you have a fraction of a second more time:

• Take a diagonal step forward and away from the ball with your inside foot
• This creates space and allows you to hit a more controlled, formal volley rather than just blocking
• Never step backward — this collapses your balance and removes power from the shot

Closing Thoughts

Tennis backhand volleys are difficult — especially when the ball is hit around your hips. Developing comfort volleying balls around your midsection takes a lot of practice. Enjoy the process and have patience.

For more technique guides visit our complete tennis technique library. And to continue building your net game, check out the full tennis volley guide for forehand volley mechanics and positioning.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Tennis Backhand Volley

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