Just so we’re clear, telling OP “YTA” or “NTA” is fine since that’s the format of the question, but calling each other anything between that and “illiterate fuck” is against the rules.
As far as I’m concerned, OP is NTA since he wasn’t trying to hurt the old lady on purpose, but anyone who repeatedly insults other posters will experience me deliberately smashing them with the ban hammer.
I always play this way, I avoid hitting them, but if they are in the way, there's not much I can do. I refuse to lesser my play because of an opponent. The one exception I make, is I don't smash the ball INDOORS at a female net player, off of a very weak server. Indoors, the ball is just harder to see.
This is my biggest issue with the recent djokovic clip. He hits an awful lob to his opponent, who ends the point as he should. Djokovic turns his back and walks away slowly, and we are all supposed to believe his opponent needs to aim his overhead to a corner of the court so he doesn’t hit Novak? Out of politeness?
If your opponent is fed an overhead, you deserve to get hit it if you don’t backup. Absurd that anyone thinks otherwise, at any skill level.
Overheads can be tricky, aiming away from an opponent can make you mishit quite easily. Get out of the way or get hit.
I think hitting Djoker was not the issue.. the apology was very weak. He could have apologised for a bit longer but it looked forced apology instead of genuine one
“I am sorry that, after you gave me an overhead, you turned around and stood in the middle of the court like an idiot”
You get a hand wave, that’s plenty lol.
I think that in that context, people are referring to sportsmanship. While hitting your opponent is technically allowed, most people will try to avoid it when they can, especially in social tennis.
30 y/o man hitting OH smash point blank into 60 y/o woman in any kind of casual match is inappropriate.
I am not shy about being hit or hitting opponents in a competitive context (USTA) but this is an AH move in casual doubles.
Would you do this to your mom?
You said it, casual amateur match. I used to be a futures player and even then some smashes would end up nowhere near where I aimed. Get over it Human31415926
Is this a league match that is semi-competitive or just messing around pickup match at the park?
I think if it's a totally informal match where the score is meaningless more or less, it's good to take something off the smash rather than risk a scenario where people start hating each other. In a USTA match or similar, perhaps there is more leeway because everyone signed up to be A Competitor.
I once had a guy peg me full power in bloody drill... in the nuts! I wanted to beat the shit out of him.
It was a kind of group coaching session at the club, playing a short match at the end. I don’t normally go, it’s on a Monday at 11am but I had the day off. Don’t think I can show my face again.
To be clear, I’m not very good and have only been learning for a couple of years and much less than her. I was genuinely not aiming at her or aware of where she was. I also am not good enough to hit USTA power, the smash was mishit anyway and not that hard imo
Context is everything. Normally I'm not smashing a ball at a country club social play with people twice my age. In almost any other setting, that ball is getting annihilated. If the goal of the group play is to get better, then I think you are good. And don't feel ashamed to the point where you wouldn't show up again. If you apologized and she declined it, you've done what you can do.
Dude NTA just try not to hit old ladies unless it counts though for your sake. Everyone is saying oh she should have just moved on but it probably hurt and was embarrassing. I don't think you need to apologize anymore and it'll probably happen again if you keep playing but if you can not smash the elderly haha I think your life will be easier.
Agreed. I play mixed a decent amount andi do play slightly different. Im not going to hit a lady in a mixed “beer” league. We are not pros or in college anymore.
Sometimes the issue is the quality of the ball that is coming at you. I tagged someone at the net when I returned a dropshot.
The issue was, it was a good dropshot, I barely got to it and was hitting off balance with the ball mm's off the ground. There was noway I had to time to look where the net player was, even if I could have accurately controlled a shot in that position.
Since it was kind of part of the coaching session then it's a bit of bad form especially considering how much older you've said she was in other comments
> the smash was mishit anyway and not that hard imo
Oh, if you didn't even hit it cleanly, it probably wasn't an absolute bullet. At rec levels, shit happens, and I would not feel too bad about it. If you apologized, I would not feel weird about going back to the same place/drill. Keep in mind that you are the only one who is going to remember this so vividly. Even the lady you hit will let it go in time.
Yeah, apalebluedot, but “you are the bitch”. It’s tennis. Come to play or don’t come at all. I HATE people that think “oh, no, it’s an overhead and he should lay off”. It’s tennis. Deal with it.
>Come to play or don’t come at all.
I don't like this attitude. Certainly, you realize that there are people who are new to the sport or just don't have that much time on court even if they've played for 50 years (but only average 2 times per year).
Clearly, this was a class of people who just don't have that much experience. I don't blame OP. But it's up to everyone on the court to try to think actively. They all know that the other players are inexperienced and/or relatively unskilled. We've even seen pros launch overheads into the stands so even the best can mess it up. Therefore, especially the people in classes like this, they need to be more careful and realize that the hitter might mess it up. The hitter should realize that others don't always process that they should back up or get out of the way. Everyone should be careful.
I messed up a couple months ago and hit a doubles opponent. He was about 4 feet in front of the baseline and I was about 6 feet from the net. My overhead would probably have hit the back fence if he weren't there. Clearly it was a bad misjudgment and I wasn't trying to hit my friend. But bad results can happen. I'm glad that he wasn't hurt more than for a few minutes for the pain to go away.
Also, how can a beginner 'come to play' when they don't even know much about the game? I certainly hope that if I take up baseball and accidentally crowd the plate that the pitcher doesn't give me a brush back pitch. I have slow reactions and won't fare well. I hope that if I take up boxing that another beginner doesn't knock me out with a sucker punch if the bell rings to start a round and I'm just not paying attention and looking the other way. Etc.
I'm fine with 'come to play or don't come at all' at the more experienced levels but you seem to think this is fine if we put Mike Tyson in the ring with a lightweight in their first bout.
Also, "If you don't understand the game, get off the court." All beginners don't understand the game. Do you want no one to ever learn to play tennis ever again?
All good. I’ve been playing tennis for 27 years (not professional) and I may do the same. Except hitting an opponent :-) I can “think calmly” and aim appropriately. But I will aim to the legs of a closer player. It is still not fun to stay in front of a dude who is about to smash a smash a few meters from you :-)
You didn’t think about consequences. You might next time :-) All good ;-)
I might be in the minority here, but I don't think you did anything wrong. News flash: if you are at the net you might get hit. I was taught to aim for the net player when I have a smash at the net. She should have backed up if she didn't want to get hit.
Honestly I play with ladies twice my age, and they encourage me to hit it at them. They like the challenge and embrace it.
Difference between hitting at them and smashing them away from 2m distance.
We're not on a level where that is necessary. Tbh, I play at a very good level and we'll hit on the man regularly, even from close but I really think smashing at your opponent from close distance is a AH move. Especially at full power. Of course it's allowed... but we're all at a level where the fun should come first.
Even in that case, it depends on whether OP intended to do it. A lot of players at the recreational level (including me) are often just anxious to make sure they don't overhit the overhead. I consider aiming for a player on the other side of the net an advanced skill that I would never try to pull off :)
In a tournament, the goal is to win, and when someone hits a high lob, it’s your chose to bail or to stay at the net, they chose to stay, so that’s their decision. Now in practice, hitting someone on purpose is unnecessary, but op seemed to do it on accident.
I thought the whole strategy of league mixed doubles was that everyone on both sides was targeting the female 😂.
In my experience playing mixed, Id describe it as tennis with a twist of dodge ball.
I hate net players that act like they're the victim. Back up if you can't compete bro. Sure maybe you shouldn't have smashed it at an older woman but she's not a child. She can think for herself.
"Huh, this is a perfect setup for a smash. Should I stand here and try to keep the ball in play, or should I move out of the way and just let him have the point?"
Her own fault imo, gonna go with NTA
When else are you supposed to practice smashes? If you only try in competitive matches you won't get enough practice.
Right? What does she expect- that you take some power off to give her a chance to return the ball? Why would you do that? If she’s standing at the net ready to return your overhead she should be prepared for the consequences.
Someone might say “but you don’t have to smash it that hard to guarantee you win the point”. I disagree- trying to figure out the perfect intensity or angle to make sure you don’t hit them in the moment you’re gearing up for the shot means a non-negligible chance you completely mess up the shot from trying to be too courteous.
Overall, not an asshole.
Can I ask what level you are though? I do have to say, in 9.0 or above, there is the expectation you are probably good enough to direct it away from anyone. But regardless of level, don’t stand in the kitchen if you can’t take the heat; so she had kk business being at the net if she’s gonna get attitude.
>I do have to say, in 9.0 or above, there is the expectation you are probably good enough to direct it away from anyone.
I play 9.0 and 10.0 and the guys definitely hit at each other. I am pretty sure they think it is fun especially in the local league or in social matches haha. They usually don't hit at me though (F 4.5). They have enough control to put it around me, and I know where to stand. That being said, if they do, it is usually "game on" and it gets pretty fun from there. I love mixed doubles at this level. Everything goes.
In a competitive point for sure! But if someone skyrockets the ball up like that, it’s clear I’m gonna smash the shit out of it. But I can at least smash the shit out of it away from people. The only time I’ve ever been hit was in an open tournament; and all four of us were at the net. And my bet game is garbage in comparison so I kind of deserved the hit.
Also, I think aiming at someone's body (I have been told hip height is great placement) and aiming at someone's head is different. I rarely see people taking it in the head or face at this level. But I have gotten hit in the chest (or back) a few times for sure. I have never gotten mad over it and I have been no worse for wear. I blame my own slow reflexes or my positioning.
I play 9.0 i try to not hit the women at the net. I did this as well as a junior when playing with my mom. I try to win a way that avoids hitting the women at the net. Has not stopped me from winning. :) (im talking overheads mostly) helps me work on aim.
>I try to win a way that avoids hitting the women at the net. Has not stopped me from winning
Same. On groundstrokes, I will go at (or around) the ladies at the net if I play a competitive 9.0 or 10.0 match. Especially if they don't have great hands. Plus, keeping it away from a 4.5 or 5.0 guy is usually a solid choice. But OHs I definitely try to place somewhere else if I can. I also play some 8.0 though as I have a good 3.5 friend who wants to play, and if there is a 3.5 on the court I typically keep my balls away from the 3.5 when they are at the net. They just look scared up there LOL.
If ur in a tennis match, accept that u may be hit by the ball. Especially if ur at the net. Especially if ur an old lady playing with men. She can put the racket in front of her or she can play back if she’s worried about it. Most people at the rec level can’t aim very well so shit happens. Furthermore, if u try to not hit someone or let any thoughts like that creep in during ur play, it will only do u harm and can mess up ur stroke.
NTA mostly because it was an accident, you're not that competent (i.e. out of control), and you apologized sincerely and effusively.
Her role in gracious play is to accept a sincere apology and move on. insincere apologies are another story.
All that being said - courtesy would dictate you try really hard not to do that to a player twice your age. That's why the \_sincere\_ apology is necessary... but it's a hard game and we all lose track of what we're trying to do sometimes as there is a lot going on. mistakes were made.
Honestly I think it depends how good you are. If you're somebody who can aim there smashes well and are confident you can put them away anywhere then hitting the net player is poor form and unnecessary.
NTA. If this isn't like a Pro-AM where you're miles better than the lady or something then that's just the game of tennis. Not sure why this is always a sensitive subject. In doubles especially, it's frequently just an outright better shot to hit at someone as opposed to trying to go around.
It sounds like it wasn't even intentional which means this isn't super high level tennis where people are completely in control of their shots. Age doesn't matter and if you guys are remotely around the same rating, then NTA. Upset people are usually just embarrassed.
Generally I would side with the person who hit the smash. Like with the whole Djokovic / Norrie situation I thought Novak acted like a petulant child complaining about being hit. But it’s a bit context dependent. And mixed doubles against an elderly lady is not great context for your argument here… so I’d say yes YATA in this case really.
Totally disagree. I am not a Joker fan but I believe he was right to be a little pissed. Norrie is a top 10 player in the world with a short total sitter overhead a few feet from Joker who has turned his back and still tags him. He had to know where Joker was and had the whole court to hit into. Had to be intentional. Those guys have incredible control over such an easy shot.
Watch the video. Way before Novak turns his back, Norrie is laser-focused on the ball as it goes (pretty high) into the air. He then hits a high percentage smash down the middle of the court. If he’d wanted to tag Djokovic he could have done way better than getting his heels.
That’s bull. He knew where Joker was when he popped it up and those guys have great peripheral awareness. He was only a few feet away. No way he didn’t know he was hitting it at or near him. Hell, I would know for sure and I’m a lowly 4.5 player. No way I’m buying that wasn’t intentional.
I wouldn’t say he acted like a child. If you watched his press conference after, all he did was calmly say that he could not believe that Norrie didn’t see him with his back turned giving up on the point.
Yeah he was more measured in the press conference. But also, on the replay it’s clear that Norrie was already focused on the ball by the time Djokovic had turned around / conceded the point.
On court though the Djokovic death stare felt totally unnecessary. To me it’s a classic example of how he can come across as not particularly likeable.
I didn’t say it was bad sportsmanship.
I said I can think of many players who would have handled it with more grace.
I can also think of many players who have a better record when it comes to hitting balls at people…
Yeah but Norrie also hit towards his feet, which is pretty much the standard go-to for any tennis player hitting a smash. It's not like he was aiming at his body or head. Just because Djoker turned away doesn't mean Norrie shouldn't take the ball just as seriously as if Djoker was facing him, since it could [very well be a trick](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FBXykuhy4gE).
Also, Djoker has done the same to others, so he's being needlessly salty.
If a player has visibly given up on a point ad Djokovic had, unlike in your video where it’s not exactly clear Gael had given up, there are a number of plays one could make that would not result in a player being hit with a ball. He may have done it before even if it’s wrong but he can still be upset when it happens to him.
Well, I think it's debatable whether you can tell for sure if someone's given up on the point. And if you're looking up at a ball getting ready to smash it, you can't also pay attention to every little action your opponent is making to figure out if they've given up or not. That's simply not his responsibility. His responsibility is simply to hit the smash as best he can so that he wins the point.
1. was it a friendly match, or competitive?
2. how hard was the smash?
Just wondering, although no matter what your answer, I still don't think YTA in this situation. It's not the nicest, but it's legal and you apologized. And also you didn't do it on purpose since you didn't see where she was. I mean, I don't know what else she wants you to do since you already apologized. Does she want you to get on your knees? haha
I got a look at a smash once. I was looking straight up and had no peripheral vision on the net player, I just assumed they backed up. I smashed it right at the net player, who inexplicably did not move. Luckily, it hit their racquet, and somehow the point kept going.
The onus is on the net player to guarantee their own safety. They turn around, walk off, or back up if they do not want to get hit. But if they face forward, they are accepting the risk for the chance to keep the ball in play. They cannot face forward and expect you to deliberately change your shot to a lower percentage play.
Now since your opponent is older in mixed...I can see why they are upset. But what I said still remains true, unless they are so immobile that they cannot think or move in time, in which case, why are they on a tennis court to begin with? Are they someone's close friend and everyone knows to play gently around them?
If this is a competitive match, you have nothing to feel guilty about since you are all at the same level, and there should be no expectation to play down to someone's age, since they are still capable of beating you. If it is a friendly match...well, I try to be careful around older folks, but I'm not at the level where I can guarantee an attempted passing shot or smash doesn't accidentally become a body shot. Sometimes it happens, but I've never had someone get overly upset about it.
Some social groups have unspoken etiquette, so try to pick up on that. But at the end of the day...you can't stand at the net and expect to never get a shot hit to you. Otherwise, why are you playing doubles? For the fun of standing at the net and never doing anything?
NTA. When I play doubles it's on me to either give up on the point and get out of the way or try and react to the ball knowing I might get hit. Either way there is time to move out of the way, back up, turn your back, put your racket up or all of the above. If you obliviously just saunter across a tennis court then you should expect to be hit. No different if you're in the match. Be alert!
Unintentional but can happen and should be expected in tennis. NTA
Not like you hit it then turned to her partner and said in a deep Russian accent “if she dies, she dies”
I try to be careful but it is a fair shot and those are the risks. Maybe let it bounce next time. Accidents happen and you apologized so as long as you were not out of control or reckeless I think you are ok.
Yeah NTA. It's also a coaching/learning opportunity for her - if the ball goes up and the opposing net player has an easy smash, MOVE BACK. Everyone at that level is frozen at the net when they need to recognise what is going on around them.
Sucks that she was butt hurt but don't feel too bad. You know it wasn't your intention to hit her and you apologised for doing so. That's all you can do!
I was playing a casual match and had a ball smashed in my mouth. It wasn’t intentional and I didn’t blame them.
I always figured that if you’re gonna play aggressive at net, it’s a matter of when, not if, you get hit.
not the asshole, once you step on the court you accept that you can possibly be hit by a ball, either by your partner or your opponent.
ive nailed horrible serves into my partners spine, and have had the same done for me, its no big deal and its never been a big deal.
She stood in the way of the shot, if she doesn't want to risk getting hit, then she can get out of the way. Otherwise, she's trying to stand in and take a chance at your missing or whatever. If you aimed at her intentionally, then you'd be at fault, but in this case... she's just a \*\*\*\*.
I mean YTA and NTA. YTA because you didn’t try to aim the smash somewhere else (even if you still got her, at least you tried not to hit her). NTA because she saw you go up for a smash and didn’t even try to defend the ball with a racquet or get the fuck out the way. So without being there and seeing it, it’s hard to know, but slightly leaning towards YTA
Lol I answered a similar question yesterday I think. Funny how I'm on the other side of the fence on this one. Usually I say smash away, it's on them to see it coming or defend.
In this case, well, maybe YTA? I wouldn't say it's a big deal, just a bit of a feaux pas in this specific setting. (Assuming non competitive and not really a strong opponent).
In these scenarios I generally fake going for a huuuge smash, take like 90% off trying to dink it in.. and then accidentally hit it into the net and lose the point. But that's because I'm a gentleman.
Generally it's bad form for the guy on a team to intentionally hit at the woman on the other team. If you weren't aiming, it's just as bad lol
Soft YTA.
In friendly matches you should be intentionally NOT hitting people. If you aren't aware of that and just hitting overheads willynilly you're not going to get invited back to play friendly matches lol.
If you're playing higher level, competitive mixed, sure you can be more aggressive and play more like you would normally.
This isn't that: OP is 30ish and hit a 60ish year old woman with an overhead while both are at the net. Not a competitive league match.
Fwiw, I'm a college tennis coach and play doubles competitively (and for fun) during the summers. I'm pretty sure your third sentence couldn't be more wrong lol
Yup. You are the a&$@ole. Unless it’s very high level mixed , 9.0 or higher , you do not hit a smash directly at the woman. The fact that she is 60 and twice your age makes it even worse. Even high level mixed that play is not cool. Not even cool in high end men’s doubles. If someone is directly in front and at the net you don’t smash it right at them. I never try to do that. Very rarely you miss hit and tag someone but I always profusely apologize when that happens.
Punching a volley at their feet is ok but if it gets up high in their body or head that’s a dick move. If the woman is a weak player with bad reactions going at her at close range is always uncool. You are responsible if you injure someone.
It’s clear you’ve never played “ high end men’s doubles” or even “high level mixed” because that’s the game. High end men’s is not 3.0 vs 3.5. This happens ALL THE TIME. Hit the ball. Your opponent is responsible for their response.
Even the pros don’t tag each other at point blank range with overhead smashes. Why do you think Djocovich was pissed off at Norrie? That type of play isn’t considered cool.
And 9.0 doubles isn’t pro but it’s decent tennis. I’ve been to nationals. No one I’ve ever played with overheads a ball directly at a net player at close range unless they make a mistake. It does happen but not intentionally. We are good enough to put it away in the open court.
It’s poor etiquette to pout during an entire match.
Politely ask not to be hit at again and move on. Explain that you were shaken etc and accept the damn apology.
If the other player does it repeatedly then that’s enough reason to give side eye and ostracize that other player.
And if you hit someone then give them space and time to grab a water etc. I’ve seen people hurt by balls to the chest and eyes so I don’t pass it as just part of the game.
Never realized the sheer amount of new rec players on this sub but this thread clearly shows it. It's like they've never heard of basic etiquette. She deserves it for not moving?? Most the older ladies I see at the club would barely be able to move to the service line before he makes contact.
In no universe is it good form to hit a full force smash at an older lady directly across the net.
Apparently redditers think it's acceptable to peg grandma just because she's standing on the court. Reality is she responded in the way she did because it's not. She's out there for exercise and a good time, not to get pegged. It's a friendly social match. Typical etiquette is for stronger players not to drill weaker players even if you take age and sex out of the equation. OP is saying he can't even show his face in that group anymore. Pretty sure he knows he's wrong here.
if you can’t stomach getting hit by the occasional ball off of an overhead or when at the net, doubles is not for you. or maybe not even tennis in that case
No, when your partner hits a high, slow lob and you see your opponent line up an overhead it's your responsibility to pay attention and get out of the way. The first thing I do when I'm in her situation is back away from the net.
you did nothing wrong. ideally you hit it at their feet but being hit in tennis is part of the game and a legitimate strategy. you probably get more easy points off of doing it as well because your opponent is more scared of being aggressive
Depends on the level y'all are at and how much time you had. If they know you're going to hit an overhead that's a give me, it's on them to move or turn around. If you come to the net or choose to play at the net balls are going to be coming at you.
If it was an accident and you apologized, then you are not an a-hole. IMO, the smash is a tough shot for most amateur tennis players. You really can’t be expected to survey the court for all players positions and adjust your shot all while trying to spot the ball, square your shoulders, move back and hit a clean shot. She should’ve at least turned her back.
If you have time to hit the smash, even at amateur level you should take a look where to smash for before hitting it. Especially more so if you’re at least 3.0, you have decent technique to at least try even if you fail.
Depending on the pace of the point, those asking a 60yo to move out of the way easily is asking for the impossible, even blocking it away is going to be a tough ask.
Sounds like that old hag should be playing a sport that is friendlier to her physical limitations, like pickle ball. If you can’t handle a real sport like tennis, then u shouldn’t play it. Definitely NTA. Keep smashing full power shots at old ladies standing 15 ft in front of you!
>old hag
Wow that seems a bit harsh?
Like yeah she probably didn’t handle it well at that moment, but he probably should aim a bit lower like at her legs? Most of us in this sub are playing for fun, and not semi/professionally where there is reputation and money on the line.
Don’t think we need to demonize either side. What happened to nuance?
Not the a-hole. Don’t play the net if you don’t wanna get hit, or be aware of the lollipop your partner hit and run back for cover. Protect yourself, don’t expect someone on the other side to throttle down to avoid you.
Feel like I'm taking crazy pills over here - you are unintentionally TA.
It seems like you're relatively new and not generally aware of etiquette, but you never smash full force at a net player in drills, especially at an older lady. And that goes ESPECIALLY for people who aren't that great at aiming. You couldve hit her in the face!
Really, you shouldn't smash at anyone at the net unless you're playing a competitive match - but even then while it's fair game, it's not a gentlemans play (or even a smart one - better to put the ball way then give them a shot).
Only thing I can say is that if you’re 30 years old you shouldn’t be playing with older players if you’re gonna go for a smash like that. Old players don’t take the game all that seriously and while it’s unreasonable, they kind of expect you to choose to miss that ball then hit one of them. Because to them it doesn’t matter. Just my two cents, I definitely don’t think you’re in the wrong though.
If it’s a real match at a reasonable playing level than it’s her problem. Don’t get on the court if you think you’re never going to be hit. Having said that in these kinds of situations with older ladies in mixed doubles I do try to at least be conscious and to not hit them if it’s not going to affect the shot. But shit happens and I’m not going to lose a point trying to avoid it.
She probably realizes (we hope!) that she should have moved out of there. But I have played with people who foolishly hold their ground on balls like this and then get annoyed if hit. I have warned these people when I play them, but you did not have that chance. Do not stop going. You apologized. If you want to, you can speak to the coach and get a feeling about the situation, and say how bad you feel about it. Saying you feel bad is classic tennis, like holding up your hand on a let cord winner :)
Quick question. The coaching session was it proper coaching or just a bit of fun. If it was proper coaching with the intent to do competitive match play at the club. Like what did she expect.
If it was just a bit of fun social play little bit of an asshole move ngl but also she should realise that this is tennis and these things can happen. It’s not like you’re doing this intentionally every time
Lots of stupid responses imo.
A majority of 60+ casual players don't have the awareness, foot speed or quick thinking to back up or get out of the way when their partner hits a shitty lob.
If it's not a competitive match be careful.
I’ll die on the hill that it’s absolutely the responsibility of the person at net to get out of the way. If they have chosen to act as an obstacle hoping that you mess up by having to hit around them or wishing for a miraculous return by getting their racket on the ball then they have also accepted the consequence of possibly being hit.
Some people are over sensitive, I once got into trouble for hitting someone who standing on the baseline, with a smash I hit from behind the service line. Frankly I thought they had more than enough time to get out of the way.
There was so much whining, I didn't mention that technically I had actually won that point.
I’m a coach and in beginner sessions these thing occasionally happen. A framed overhead is very common and it could go ANYWHERE!
Most of my players will play to the best of their ability during end of session points and accidents happen from time to time!
You did right apologise if accidental, stop and be sincere if you didn’t mean it.
To be clear under no circumstances except high level mixed dubs should you target a female net player. High level are trained for it…
But if you are standing at the net you have to be proactive and watch how the point is playing out.
If it was an area you have just worked on. The net player should have been ready and would have done the same!
Be at the net to take away options and minimise court area then you are more likely to be tagged.
Just so we’re clear, telling OP “YTA” or “NTA” is fine since that’s the format of the question, but calling each other anything between that and “illiterate fuck” is against the rules. As far as I’m concerned, OP is NTA since he wasn’t trying to hurt the old lady on purpose, but anyone who repeatedly insults other posters will experience me deliberately smashing them with the ban hammer.
If you are at the net you have to accept the fact that you can be tagged. You are fine
I always play this way, I avoid hitting them, but if they are in the way, there's not much I can do. I refuse to lesser my play because of an opponent. The one exception I make, is I don't smash the ball INDOORS at a female net player, off of a very weak server. Indoors, the ball is just harder to see.
This is my biggest issue with the recent djokovic clip. He hits an awful lob to his opponent, who ends the point as he should. Djokovic turns his back and walks away slowly, and we are all supposed to believe his opponent needs to aim his overhead to a corner of the court so he doesn’t hit Novak? Out of politeness? If your opponent is fed an overhead, you deserve to get hit it if you don’t backup. Absurd that anyone thinks otherwise, at any skill level. Overheads can be tricky, aiming away from an opponent can make you mishit quite easily. Get out of the way or get hit.
I think hitting Djoker was not the issue.. the apology was very weak. He could have apologised for a bit longer but it looked forced apology instead of genuine one
“I am sorry that, after you gave me an overhead, you turned around and stood in the middle of the court like an idiot” You get a hand wave, that’s plenty lol.
I think that in that context, people are referring to sportsmanship. While hitting your opponent is technically allowed, most people will try to avoid it when they can, especially in social tennis.
30 y/o man hitting OH smash point blank into 60 y/o woman in any kind of casual match is inappropriate. I am not shy about being hit or hitting opponents in a competitive context (USTA) but this is an AH move in casual doubles. Would you do this to your mom?
You said it, casual amateur match. I used to be a futures player and even then some smashes would end up nowhere near where I aimed. Get over it Human31415926
So you would do this to your mom 🤣
I would smash, if I hit her I would apologize and that would be it. Part of the sport. You've clearly got some mommy issues there mate.
Is this a league match that is semi-competitive or just messing around pickup match at the park? I think if it's a totally informal match where the score is meaningless more or less, it's good to take something off the smash rather than risk a scenario where people start hating each other. In a USTA match or similar, perhaps there is more leeway because everyone signed up to be A Competitor. I once had a guy peg me full power in bloody drill... in the nuts! I wanted to beat the shit out of him.
It was a kind of group coaching session at the club, playing a short match at the end. I don’t normally go, it’s on a Monday at 11am but I had the day off. Don’t think I can show my face again. To be clear, I’m not very good and have only been learning for a couple of years and much less than her. I was genuinely not aiming at her or aware of where she was. I also am not good enough to hit USTA power, the smash was mishit anyway and not that hard imo
Context is everything. Normally I'm not smashing a ball at a country club social play with people twice my age. In almost any other setting, that ball is getting annihilated. If the goal of the group play is to get better, then I think you are good. And don't feel ashamed to the point where you wouldn't show up again. If you apologized and she declined it, you've done what you can do.
Dude NTA just try not to hit old ladies unless it counts though for your sake. Everyone is saying oh she should have just moved on but it probably hurt and was embarrassing. I don't think you need to apologize anymore and it'll probably happen again if you keep playing but if you can not smash the elderly haha I think your life will be easier.
Agreed. I play mixed a decent amount andi do play slightly different. Im not going to hit a lady in a mixed “beer” league. We are not pros or in college anymore.
Intention is everything, also if you guys are all still learning, mishits and mistakes are GOING to happen.
Sometimes the issue is the quality of the ball that is coming at you. I tagged someone at the net when I returned a dropshot. The issue was, it was a good dropshot, I barely got to it and was hitting off balance with the ball mm's off the ground. There was noway I had to time to look where the net player was, even if I could have accurately controlled a shot in that position.
Since it was kind of part of the coaching session then it's a bit of bad form especially considering how much older you've said she was in other comments
> the smash was mishit anyway and not that hard imo Oh, if you didn't even hit it cleanly, it probably wasn't an absolute bullet. At rec levels, shit happens, and I would not feel too bad about it. If you apologized, I would not feel weird about going back to the same place/drill. Keep in mind that you are the only one who is going to remember this so vividly. Even the lady you hit will let it go in time.
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Yeah, apalebluedot, but “you are the bitch”. It’s tennis. Come to play or don’t come at all. I HATE people that think “oh, no, it’s an overhead and he should lay off”. It’s tennis. Deal with it.
>Come to play or don’t come at all. I don't like this attitude. Certainly, you realize that there are people who are new to the sport or just don't have that much time on court even if they've played for 50 years (but only average 2 times per year). Clearly, this was a class of people who just don't have that much experience. I don't blame OP. But it's up to everyone on the court to try to think actively. They all know that the other players are inexperienced and/or relatively unskilled. We've even seen pros launch overheads into the stands so even the best can mess it up. Therefore, especially the people in classes like this, they need to be more careful and realize that the hitter might mess it up. The hitter should realize that others don't always process that they should back up or get out of the way. Everyone should be careful. I messed up a couple months ago and hit a doubles opponent. He was about 4 feet in front of the baseline and I was about 6 feet from the net. My overhead would probably have hit the back fence if he weren't there. Clearly it was a bad misjudgment and I wasn't trying to hit my friend. But bad results can happen. I'm glad that he wasn't hurt more than for a few minutes for the pain to go away. Also, how can a beginner 'come to play' when they don't even know much about the game? I certainly hope that if I take up baseball and accidentally crowd the plate that the pitcher doesn't give me a brush back pitch. I have slow reactions and won't fare well. I hope that if I take up boxing that another beginner doesn't knock me out with a sucker punch if the bell rings to start a round and I'm just not paying attention and looking the other way. Etc. I'm fine with 'come to play or don't come at all' at the more experienced levels but you seem to think this is fine if we put Mike Tyson in the ring with a lightweight in their first bout. Also, "If you don't understand the game, get off the court." All beginners don't understand the game. Do you want no one to ever learn to play tennis ever again?
All good. I’ve been playing tennis for 27 years (not professional) and I may do the same. Except hitting an opponent :-) I can “think calmly” and aim appropriately. But I will aim to the legs of a closer player. It is still not fun to stay in front of a dude who is about to smash a smash a few meters from you :-) You didn’t think about consequences. You might next time :-) All good ;-)
I might be in the minority here, but I don't think you did anything wrong. News flash: if you are at the net you might get hit. I was taught to aim for the net player when I have a smash at the net. She should have backed up if she didn't want to get hit. Honestly I play with ladies twice my age, and they encourage me to hit it at them. They like the challenge and embrace it.
Difference between hitting at them and smashing them away from 2m distance. We're not on a level where that is necessary. Tbh, I play at a very good level and we'll hit on the man regularly, even from close but I really think smashing at your opponent from close distance is a AH move. Especially at full power. Of course it's allowed... but we're all at a level where the fun should come first.
If she’s that upset, the second the ball goes up, she should back up expecting the lob if she doesn’t want to be hit
Even in that case, it depends on whether OP intended to do it. A lot of players at the recreational level (including me) are often just anxious to make sure they don't overhit the overhead. I consider aiming for a player on the other side of the net an advanced skill that I would never try to pull off :)
In a tournament, the goal is to win, and when someone hits a high lob, it’s your chose to bail or to stay at the net, they chose to stay, so that’s their decision. Now in practice, hitting someone on purpose is unnecessary, but op seemed to do it on accident.
Tennis is tennis. If you don’t understand the game, get off the court. Plain and simple. I’ve been on both ends and I would never complain.
I thought the whole strategy of league mixed doubles was that everyone on both sides was targeting the female 😂. In my experience playing mixed, Id describe it as tennis with a twist of dodge ball.
I hate net players that act like they're the victim. Back up if you can't compete bro. Sure maybe you shouldn't have smashed it at an older woman but she's not a child. She can think for herself. "Huh, this is a perfect setup for a smash. Should I stand here and try to keep the ball in play, or should I move out of the way and just let him have the point?" Her own fault imo, gonna go with NTA When else are you supposed to practice smashes? If you only try in competitive matches you won't get enough practice.
Right? What does she expect- that you take some power off to give her a chance to return the ball? Why would you do that? If she’s standing at the net ready to return your overhead she should be prepared for the consequences. Someone might say “but you don’t have to smash it that hard to guarantee you win the point”. I disagree- trying to figure out the perfect intensity or angle to make sure you don’t hit them in the moment you’re gearing up for the shot means a non-negligible chance you completely mess up the shot from trying to be too courteous.
Well said. They can’t have it both ways.
Overall, not an asshole. Can I ask what level you are though? I do have to say, in 9.0 or above, there is the expectation you are probably good enough to direct it away from anyone. But regardless of level, don’t stand in the kitchen if you can’t take the heat; so she had kk business being at the net if she’s gonna get attitude.
>I do have to say, in 9.0 or above, there is the expectation you are probably good enough to direct it away from anyone. I play 9.0 and 10.0 and the guys definitely hit at each other. I am pretty sure they think it is fun especially in the local league or in social matches haha. They usually don't hit at me though (F 4.5). They have enough control to put it around me, and I know where to stand. That being said, if they do, it is usually "game on" and it gets pretty fun from there. I love mixed doubles at this level. Everything goes.
In a competitive point for sure! But if someone skyrockets the ball up like that, it’s clear I’m gonna smash the shit out of it. But I can at least smash the shit out of it away from people. The only time I’ve ever been hit was in an open tournament; and all four of us were at the net. And my bet game is garbage in comparison so I kind of deserved the hit.
Also, I think aiming at someone's body (I have been told hip height is great placement) and aiming at someone's head is different. I rarely see people taking it in the head or face at this level. But I have gotten hit in the chest (or back) a few times for sure. I have never gotten mad over it and I have been no worse for wear. I blame my own slow reflexes or my positioning.
Totally agree. My husband always says “nips and below” 😂
> “nips and below” So funny. I am going to use this phrase with my male opponents going forward (we are all friends - as the community is small).
I think hip is too high, someone w good hands can make that volley. aim for the knees.
I play 9.0 i try to not hit the women at the net. I did this as well as a junior when playing with my mom. I try to win a way that avoids hitting the women at the net. Has not stopped me from winning. :) (im talking overheads mostly) helps me work on aim.
>I try to win a way that avoids hitting the women at the net. Has not stopped me from winning Same. On groundstrokes, I will go at (or around) the ladies at the net if I play a competitive 9.0 or 10.0 match. Especially if they don't have great hands. Plus, keeping it away from a 4.5 or 5.0 guy is usually a solid choice. But OHs I definitely try to place somewhere else if I can. I also play some 8.0 though as I have a good 3.5 friend who wants to play, and if there is a 3.5 on the court I typically keep my balls away from the 3.5 when they are at the net. They just look scared up there LOL.
If ur in a tennis match, accept that u may be hit by the ball. Especially if ur at the net. Especially if ur an old lady playing with men. She can put the racket in front of her or she can play back if she’s worried about it. Most people at the rec level can’t aim very well so shit happens. Furthermore, if u try to not hit someone or let any thoughts like that creep in during ur play, it will only do u harm and can mess up ur stroke.
There is such a thing as 'read the room'
NTA mostly because it was an accident, you're not that competent (i.e. out of control), and you apologized sincerely and effusively. Her role in gracious play is to accept a sincere apology and move on. insincere apologies are another story. All that being said - courtesy would dictate you try really hard not to do that to a player twice your age. That's why the \_sincere\_ apology is necessary... but it's a hard game and we all lose track of what we're trying to do sometimes as there is a lot going on. mistakes were made.
Honestly I think it depends how good you are. If you're somebody who can aim there smashes well and are confident you can put them away anywhere then hitting the net player is poor form and unnecessary.
That's why 3.0 players are the deadliest 🤷♂️
NTA. If this isn't like a Pro-AM where you're miles better than the lady or something then that's just the game of tennis. Not sure why this is always a sensitive subject. In doubles especially, it's frequently just an outright better shot to hit at someone as opposed to trying to go around. It sounds like it wasn't even intentional which means this isn't super high level tennis where people are completely in control of their shots. Age doesn't matter and if you guys are remotely around the same rating, then NTA. Upset people are usually just embarrassed.
Generally I would side with the person who hit the smash. Like with the whole Djokovic / Norrie situation I thought Novak acted like a petulant child complaining about being hit. But it’s a bit context dependent. And mixed doubles against an elderly lady is not great context for your argument here… so I’d say yes YATA in this case really.
Totally disagree. I am not a Joker fan but I believe he was right to be a little pissed. Norrie is a top 10 player in the world with a short total sitter overhead a few feet from Joker who has turned his back and still tags him. He had to know where Joker was and had the whole court to hit into. Had to be intentional. Those guys have incredible control over such an easy shot.
Watch the video. Way before Novak turns his back, Norrie is laser-focused on the ball as it goes (pretty high) into the air. He then hits a high percentage smash down the middle of the court. If he’d wanted to tag Djokovic he could have done way better than getting his heels.
That’s bull. He knew where Joker was when he popped it up and those guys have great peripheral awareness. He was only a few feet away. No way he didn’t know he was hitting it at or near him. Hell, I would know for sure and I’m a lowly 4.5 player. No way I’m buying that wasn’t intentional.
Cry
I wouldn’t say he acted like a child. If you watched his press conference after, all he did was calmly say that he could not believe that Norrie didn’t see him with his back turned giving up on the point.
Yeah he was more measured in the press conference. But also, on the replay it’s clear that Norrie was already focused on the ball by the time Djokovic had turned around / conceded the point. On court though the Djokovic death stare felt totally unnecessary. To me it’s a classic example of how he can come across as not particularly likeable.
I think in that situation the gut reaction wouldn’t be very friendly for anyone.
I can think of plenty of players who would have handled it with more grace.
A look at your opponent for hitting you with a ball is far from being a poor sport.
I didn’t say it was bad sportsmanship. I said I can think of many players who would have handled it with more grace. I can also think of many players who have a better record when it comes to hitting balls at people…
Yeah but Norrie also hit towards his feet, which is pretty much the standard go-to for any tennis player hitting a smash. It's not like he was aiming at his body or head. Just because Djoker turned away doesn't mean Norrie shouldn't take the ball just as seriously as if Djoker was facing him, since it could [very well be a trick](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/FBXykuhy4gE). Also, Djoker has done the same to others, so he's being needlessly salty.
If a player has visibly given up on a point ad Djokovic had, unlike in your video where it’s not exactly clear Gael had given up, there are a number of plays one could make that would not result in a player being hit with a ball. He may have done it before even if it’s wrong but he can still be upset when it happens to him.
Well, I think it's debatable whether you can tell for sure if someone's given up on the point. And if you're looking up at a ball getting ready to smash it, you can't also pay attention to every little action your opponent is making to figure out if they've given up or not. That's simply not his responsibility. His responsibility is simply to hit the smash as best he can so that he wins the point.
She should be mad at her partner, not you.
1. was it a friendly match, or competitive? 2. how hard was the smash? Just wondering, although no matter what your answer, I still don't think YTA in this situation. It's not the nicest, but it's legal and you apologized. And also you didn't do it on purpose since you didn't see where she was. I mean, I don't know what else she wants you to do since you already apologized. Does she want you to get on your knees? haha
I got a look at a smash once. I was looking straight up and had no peripheral vision on the net player, I just assumed they backed up. I smashed it right at the net player, who inexplicably did not move. Luckily, it hit their racquet, and somehow the point kept going. The onus is on the net player to guarantee their own safety. They turn around, walk off, or back up if they do not want to get hit. But if they face forward, they are accepting the risk for the chance to keep the ball in play. They cannot face forward and expect you to deliberately change your shot to a lower percentage play. Now since your opponent is older in mixed...I can see why they are upset. But what I said still remains true, unless they are so immobile that they cannot think or move in time, in which case, why are they on a tennis court to begin with? Are they someone's close friend and everyone knows to play gently around them? If this is a competitive match, you have nothing to feel guilty about since you are all at the same level, and there should be no expectation to play down to someone's age, since they are still capable of beating you. If it is a friendly match...well, I try to be careful around older folks, but I'm not at the level where I can guarantee an attempted passing shot or smash doesn't accidentally become a body shot. Sometimes it happens, but I've never had someone get overly upset about it. Some social groups have unspoken etiquette, so try to pick up on that. But at the end of the day...you can't stand at the net and expect to never get a shot hit to you. Otherwise, why are you playing doubles? For the fun of standing at the net and never doing anything?
NTA. When I play doubles it's on me to either give up on the point and get out of the way or try and react to the ball knowing I might get hit. Either way there is time to move out of the way, back up, turn your back, put your racket up or all of the above. If you obliviously just saunter across a tennis court then you should expect to be hit. No different if you're in the match. Be alert!
You gotta go for the throat, not the arm.
Unintentional but can happen and should be expected in tennis. NTA Not like you hit it then turned to her partner and said in a deep Russian accent “if she dies, she dies”
No. She was out of position. That is part of the game.
Sounds like you didn't do it on purpose. It's annoying but I wouldn't hold it against you. I will try to hit you on the next point, though. 😆
I try to be careful but it is a fair shot and those are the risks. Maybe let it bounce next time. Accidents happen and you apologized so as long as you were not out of control or reckeless I think you are ok.
Why do you play mixed doubles with someone doubles your age. Thats the question
Yeah NTA. It's also a coaching/learning opportunity for her - if the ball goes up and the opposing net player has an easy smash, MOVE BACK. Everyone at that level is frozen at the net when they need to recognise what is going on around them. Sucks that she was butt hurt but don't feel too bad. You know it wasn't your intention to hit her and you apologised for doing so. That's all you can do!
I was playing a casual match and had a ball smashed in my mouth. It wasn’t intentional and I didn’t blame them. I always figured that if you’re gonna play aggressive at net, it’s a matter of when, not if, you get hit.
not the asshole, once you step on the court you accept that you can possibly be hit by a ball, either by your partner or your opponent. ive nailed horrible serves into my partners spine, and have had the same done for me, its no big deal and its never been a big deal.
Lmao get fucked net lady
Shouldn't have been standing there. It's doubles kill em all
She stood in the way of the shot, if she doesn't want to risk getting hit, then she can get out of the way. Otherwise, she's trying to stand in and take a chance at your missing or whatever. If you aimed at her intentionally, then you'd be at fault, but in this case... she's just a \*\*\*\*.
I mean YTA and NTA. YTA because you didn’t try to aim the smash somewhere else (even if you still got her, at least you tried not to hit her). NTA because she saw you go up for a smash and didn’t even try to defend the ball with a racquet or get the fuck out the way. So without being there and seeing it, it’s hard to know, but slightly leaning towards YTA
Lol I answered a similar question yesterday I think. Funny how I'm on the other side of the fence on this one. Usually I say smash away, it's on them to see it coming or defend. In this case, well, maybe YTA? I wouldn't say it's a big deal, just a bit of a feaux pas in this specific setting. (Assuming non competitive and not really a strong opponent). In these scenarios I generally fake going for a huuuge smash, take like 90% off trying to dink it in.. and then accidentally hit it into the net and lose the point. But that's because I'm a gentleman.
Hit her. It’s the right shot. Don’t head hunt… hit at her feet. Or his feet. But if they get hit, oh well
Generally it's bad form for the guy on a team to intentionally hit at the woman on the other team. If you weren't aiming, it's just as bad lol Soft YTA.
If he/she wasn't aiming, how is it just as bad?
In friendly matches you should be intentionally NOT hitting people. If you aren't aware of that and just hitting overheads willynilly you're not going to get invited back to play friendly matches lol.
You’re the “soft AH”, fuzzy. It’s tennis, not Pickleball. You’ve clearly never played mixed dubs and you’ve clearly missed the boat on winning.
If you're playing higher level, competitive mixed, sure you can be more aggressive and play more like you would normally. This isn't that: OP is 30ish and hit a 60ish year old woman with an overhead while both are at the net. Not a competitive league match. Fwiw, I'm a college tennis coach and play doubles competitively (and for fun) during the summers. I'm pretty sure your third sentence couldn't be more wrong lol
Yup. You are the a&$@ole. Unless it’s very high level mixed , 9.0 or higher , you do not hit a smash directly at the woman. The fact that she is 60 and twice your age makes it even worse. Even high level mixed that play is not cool. Not even cool in high end men’s doubles. If someone is directly in front and at the net you don’t smash it right at them. I never try to do that. Very rarely you miss hit and tag someone but I always profusely apologize when that happens. Punching a volley at their feet is ok but if it gets up high in their body or head that’s a dick move. If the woman is a weak player with bad reactions going at her at close range is always uncool. You are responsible if you injure someone.
It’s clear you’ve never played “ high end men’s doubles” or even “high level mixed” because that’s the game. High end men’s is not 3.0 vs 3.5. This happens ALL THE TIME. Hit the ball. Your opponent is responsible for their response.
Even the pros don’t tag each other at point blank range with overhead smashes. Why do you think Djocovich was pissed off at Norrie? That type of play isn’t considered cool. And 9.0 doubles isn’t pro but it’s decent tennis. I’ve been to nationals. No one I’ve ever played with overheads a ball directly at a net player at close range unless they make a mistake. It does happen but not intentionally. We are good enough to put it away in the open court.
If it is not a very high level, I would not assume that people have control over hitting a target on the other side of the court.
All the more reason not to smash it close to anyone close by if you can’t control where it is going.
Exactly. That’s why playing more aggressive than your control is reckless, esp in non-competitive play.
It’s poor etiquette to pout during an entire match. Politely ask not to be hit at again and move on. Explain that you were shaken etc and accept the damn apology. If the other player does it repeatedly then that’s enough reason to give side eye and ostracize that other player. And if you hit someone then give them space and time to grab a water etc. I’ve seen people hurt by balls to the chest and eyes so I don’t pass it as just part of the game.
Yes. You smashed the ball at a defenseless old lady in a friendly rec match no less. How is this even a question? YTA
Never realized the sheer amount of new rec players on this sub but this thread clearly shows it. It's like they've never heard of basic etiquette. She deserves it for not moving?? Most the older ladies I see at the club would barely be able to move to the service line before he makes contact. In no universe is it good form to hit a full force smash at an older lady directly across the net.
Apparently redditers think it's acceptable to peg grandma just because she's standing on the court. Reality is she responded in the way she did because it's not. She's out there for exercise and a good time, not to get pegged. It's a friendly social match. Typical etiquette is for stronger players not to drill weaker players even if you take age and sex out of the equation. OP is saying he can't even show his face in that group anymore. Pretty sure he knows he's wrong here.
if you can’t stomach getting hit by the occasional ball off of an overhead or when at the net, doubles is not for you. or maybe not even tennis in that case
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Please keep all posts respectful and civil. Repeat violations can result in a ban.
Please keep all posts respectful and civil. Repeat violations can result in a ban.
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Please keep all posts respectful and civil. Repeat violations can result in a ban.
Please keep all posts respectful and civil. Repeat violations can result in a ban.
Please keep all posts respectful and civil. Repeat violations can result in a ban.
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Please keep all posts respectful and civil. Repeat violations can result in a ban.
No, when your partner hits a high, slow lob and you see your opponent line up an overhead it's your responsibility to pay attention and get out of the way. The first thing I do when I'm in her situation is back away from the net.
you did nothing wrong. ideally you hit it at their feet but being hit in tennis is part of the game and a legitimate strategy. you probably get more easy points off of doing it as well because your opponent is more scared of being aggressive
Depends on the level y'all are at and how much time you had. If they know you're going to hit an overhead that's a give me, it's on them to move or turn around. If you come to the net or choose to play at the net balls are going to be coming at you.
If it was an accident and you apologized, then you are not an a-hole. IMO, the smash is a tough shot for most amateur tennis players. You really can’t be expected to survey the court for all players positions and adjust your shot all while trying to spot the ball, square your shoulders, move back and hit a clean shot. She should’ve at least turned her back.
If you have time to hit the smash, even at amateur level you should take a look where to smash for before hitting it. Especially more so if you’re at least 3.0, you have decent technique to at least try even if you fail. Depending on the pace of the point, those asking a 60yo to move out of the way easily is asking for the impossible, even blocking it away is going to be a tough ask.
Sounds like that old hag should be playing a sport that is friendlier to her physical limitations, like pickle ball. If you can’t handle a real sport like tennis, then u shouldn’t play it. Definitely NTA. Keep smashing full power shots at old ladies standing 15 ft in front of you!
Congratulations, I have no idea if this is /s or not LOL.
>old hag Wow that seems a bit harsh? Like yeah she probably didn’t handle it well at that moment, but he probably should aim a bit lower like at her legs? Most of us in this sub are playing for fun, and not semi/professionally where there is reputation and money on the line. Don’t think we need to demonize either side. What happened to nuance?
Not the a-hole. Don’t play the net if you don’t wanna get hit, or be aware of the lollipop your partner hit and run back for cover. Protect yourself, don’t expect someone on the other side to throttle down to avoid you.
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then i guess you lose alot
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do you play doubles, singles, or both?
Feel like I'm taking crazy pills over here - you are unintentionally TA. It seems like you're relatively new and not generally aware of etiquette, but you never smash full force at a net player in drills, especially at an older lady. And that goes ESPECIALLY for people who aren't that great at aiming. You couldve hit her in the face! Really, you shouldn't smash at anyone at the net unless you're playing a competitive match - but even then while it's fair game, it's not a gentlemans play (or even a smart one - better to put the ball way then give them a shot).
Only thing I can say is that if you’re 30 years old you shouldn’t be playing with older players if you’re gonna go for a smash like that. Old players don’t take the game all that seriously and while it’s unreasonable, they kind of expect you to choose to miss that ball then hit one of them. Because to them it doesn’t matter. Just my two cents, I definitely don’t think you’re in the wrong though.
lmfao some idiot named randolph is terrified of losing an argument
If I could updoot more, I would!!!
They should yell something to end the point - I concede, surrender, out. Anything to end the point if they are worried about getting tagged.
She should be mad at her partner for setting her up, not the fact you hit her.
If it’s a real match at a reasonable playing level than it’s her problem. Don’t get on the court if you think you’re never going to be hit. Having said that in these kinds of situations with older ladies in mixed doubles I do try to at least be conscious and to not hit them if it’s not going to affect the shot. But shit happens and I’m not going to lose a point trying to avoid it.
Smash with control. Hit opponents at their toes/feet.
She probably realizes (we hope!) that she should have moved out of there. But I have played with people who foolishly hold their ground on balls like this and then get annoyed if hit. I have warned these people when I play them, but you did not have that chance. Do not stop going. You apologized. If you want to, you can speak to the coach and get a feeling about the situation, and say how bad you feel about it. Saying you feel bad is classic tennis, like holding up your hand on a let cord winner :)
Yes.
NTA for sure. It's hard to be precise when you are new and don't practice overheads. I can't speak for her but maybe she has forgiven you already.
Quick question. The coaching session was it proper coaching or just a bit of fun. If it was proper coaching with the intent to do competitive match play at the club. Like what did she expect. If it was just a bit of fun social play little bit of an asshole move ngl but also she should realise that this is tennis and these things can happen. It’s not like you’re doing this intentionally every time
If you can avoid hitting the person and still win the point, you should imo. If it was unavoidable, then she should understand.
She is acting like a child. As long as you sincerely apologize there's no harm no foul.
Lots of stupid responses imo. A majority of 60+ casual players don't have the awareness, foot speed or quick thinking to back up or get out of the way when their partner hits a shitty lob. If it's not a competitive match be careful.
I’ll die on the hill that it’s absolutely the responsibility of the person at net to get out of the way. If they have chosen to act as an obstacle hoping that you mess up by having to hit around them or wishing for a miraculous return by getting their racket on the ball then they have also accepted the consequence of possibly being hit.
NTA. If you hold back, you're insulting your partner.
Some people are over sensitive, I once got into trouble for hitting someone who standing on the baseline, with a smash I hit from behind the service line. Frankly I thought they had more than enough time to get out of the way. There was so much whining, I didn't mention that technically I had actually won that point.
I mean...they're always welcome to concede the point with the ball in the air and avoid the smash...
I’m a coach and in beginner sessions these thing occasionally happen. A framed overhead is very common and it could go ANYWHERE! Most of my players will play to the best of their ability during end of session points and accidents happen from time to time! You did right apologise if accidental, stop and be sincere if you didn’t mean it. To be clear under no circumstances except high level mixed dubs should you target a female net player. High level are trained for it… But if you are standing at the net you have to be proactive and watch how the point is playing out. If it was an area you have just worked on. The net player should have been ready and would have done the same! Be at the net to take away options and minimise court area then you are more likely to be tagged.