You should be aware that one of the targets for your opponents, when you play at the net, is the backcourt. That means… look out for the lobs.

There are a few cues to see the lob coming:

- opposing baseline player backing up;

- opposing player stretching wide for the ball;

- moving the body weight onto the back foot;

- racquet face open before contact, etc.

I suggest answering the lob with very aggressive overhead smashes (even if they go out or into the net). That transmits the message that you are not afraid of lobs and also makes the opposition extra cautious and defensive the next time they send up a lob.