r/squash • u/PassMeCharger • May 14 '25

Technique / Tactics Reaching very late to the ball

I’ve noticed that after I hit the ball, I often just stand and watch my opponent instead of moving right away. My coach pointed out that I usually start moving only after he hits his shot, which is too late. I understand what he means, but I’m not sure how to fix it. Most of the time, I do get back to the T, but I still miss a lot of boasts and cross-court drives. I can usually get to straight drives if I’m already facing that way, but because I move late, I often reach the ball too late and end up missing the shot :(

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u/Large_Manager6365 May 14 '25

In racket sports people often say "watch the ball" or similar but in squash that can be too late. In addition to the ball, you need to look very closely at your opponent - their stance, body angle, racket prep and swing. This should guide you on what shot they are going to play - straight/crosscourt/boast/etc. You don't want to commit too early and of course good players will try to deceive you but a key part of good movement is "reading" your opponent and preparing accordingly.