5 revolutionary shots and tactics in modern tennis

#2 Roger Federer – SABR (Sneak Attack By Roger)

Roger Federer using the SABR tactic during the US Open

This is a tactic, that was enhanced and constructed by Federer, during the latter part of 2015, during the American and indoor hard-court season.

This involves rushing to the net, just as the opponent has finished their service motion and taking the ball very early on the half-volley.

This pressurizes the person on the other side, as you are in an offensive position right from the start of the rally.

This gives the opponent little time to think, causing them to panic, hitting a shot they might not necessarily be comfortable with. This was a tactic used by Nick Krygios, who did this very effectively against Alexander Zverev, even using this tactic from a first serve.

To use this tactic effectively, one's reactions and skills need to be extremely fast, even for most ATP and WTA players. However, this is a strategy that could be used more often, giving the opponent, an extra problem to think about.