Partner communication
Simple calls like mine, yours, bounce and switch prevent missed balls and collisions. Learn the core vocabulary, between-point routines and how to be a great partner.
Why talking wins points
Many doubles points are lost on balls that both partners could have hit, or that neither did. A few simple words, said early and loudly, solve most of these problems. Communication also keeps a partnership positive, which matters as much as technique in a long match.
The core calls
| Call | Meaning | When |
|---|---|---|
| "Mine" | I am taking this ball | Middle balls, overheads, lobs |
| "Yours" | You take it | When it is clearly in your partner's zone |
| "Bounce" | Let it bounce, it may go out | Balls heading long or wide |
| "Out" or "No" | Do not hit it | Clearly out balls in the air |
| "Switch" | We are changing sides | Covering a lob over a partner |
| "Stay" | Do not switch | After a lob is handled |
| "Up" or "Back" | Move forward or back together | During transition |
Say it before the ball arrives, not after you have hit it. A late call is confusing, not helpful.
Who takes the middle
Agree before the match:
- Forehand takes the middle is a common default.
- The player who hit the previous cross-court ball often takes the next middle ball, since they are better positioned.
- Stronger player takes the middle in mixed-level partnerships.
Then keep calling, because rules of thumb do not cover every ball.
Between-point routines
- Quick check-in: a word or two, such as "deep return, stay patient."
- Serve and return plans: decide where the serve goes or whether you are stacking. See stacking.
- Hand signals: a hand behind the back can indicate plans such as stay or switch, out of view of opponents.
- Reset after errors: a quick paddle tap and "next point" keeps the mood steady.
Being a great partner
- Encourage after mistakes. Your partner knows they missed.
- Avoid coaching mid-match unless your partner asks.
- Take responsibility for your own errors.
- Celebrate good shots by either player.
- Never blame your partner in front of opponents.
Calling line balls together
If you are not hitting the ball, you are often in a better position to judge whether it is going out. Calling "bounce" or "out" for your partner is one of the most useful habits in doubles. For in or out after the bounce, see line calls.
Lob coverage
When an opponent lobs over one partner:
- The partner diagonally behind can often get there faster.
- Call "switch" early. The lobbed player crosses to the other side.
- Once the point continues, call "stay" or reset positions at the next dead ball.
See the lob.
Drill
Play a game where every middle ball must be called before it is hit. A ball hit without a call counts as a fault for your team. It feels awkward for ten minutes, then becomes automatic.
Talk even when you are tired. Communication usually breaks down late in games, and that is when it matters most.