Men's Doubles: Basics, Rules & Winning Strategies

If you’ve ever watched a tennis match and wondered why the players move so differently in doubles, you’re not alone. Men’s doubles brings a mix of quick reflexes, smart positioning, and solid teamwork. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your game, this guide breaks down what you need to know.

Understanding the Rules

First things first – the court. In men’s doubles you use the full width of the court, which adds about 4.5 meters to the side lines. That extra space means you have to cover more ground, but it also opens up angles for aggressive net play. The serve must land in the opponent’s deuce or ad court, just like in singles, and each player serves two games before the serve rotates.

Scoring stays the same: 15, 30, 40, game, with a tiebreak at 6‑6. One key difference is the “no‑volley zone” (the kitchen) only exists in pickleball, not tennis, so you can step right up to the net after a serve. That’s why a strong volley can change the whole rhythm of a point.

Winning Strategies for Men's Doubles

Communication is the secret sauce. A quick, “I’ve got it” or “Switch!” can prevent confusion and keep both players moving as a unit. Pair up complementary skills – one player with a big serve, the other with sharp reflexes at the net – and let each person play to their strength.

Serve and volley is a classic tactic. Aim your serve wide to the opponent’s backhand, then charge the net. This forces the returner into a difficult angle and gives you and your partner a chance to finish the point quickly. If the return is deep, the poacher (the player at the net) can step in and intercept with a half‑volley or an aggressive put‑away.

Positioning matters. The “one up, one back” formation works well when you have a strong baseline player who can handle groundstrokes while the net player poaches. When both players are comfortable at the net, the “both up” formation puts pressure on the opponents, but be ready to cover lobs with a quick retreat.

Practice drills should focus on reaction time and coordination. Try the “wall drill”: stand a few feet from a wall, hit forehands and backhands alternately, and have your partner mirror the shots. This builds reflexes and helps you anticipate where the ball will go in a real match.

Don’t ignore footwork. In doubles you’ll often need to shuffle sideways rather than sprint forward. Small, quick steps keep you balanced and ready to change direction. Work on split steps before each shot – a tiny hop that lets you explode into the next move.

Watch professional pairs for inspiration. The Bryan brothers (Bob and Mike) made their fame by mastering the “forehand‑dominant” play and flawless teamwork. Indian duo Rohan Bopanna and Divij Sharan show how a solid serve‑and‑volley game can dominate on faster courts.

Finally, keep your equipment simple. A slightly heavier racket can add power on serves, while a tighter string tension gives more control at the net. Choose shoes with good lateral support – you’ll be cutting across the court a lot.

Men’s doubles is as much about chemistry as it is about skill. By mastering the rules, communicating clearly, and applying these practical strategies, you’ll see your match results improve fast. Grab a partner, hit the courts, and enjoy the faster, more dynamic side of tennis.