Want to drop like Matthew? Why not give SquashSkills – the definitive online squash coaching resource – a try. SquashSkills gives its members unrivalled access to some of the best coaches in the world. Try SquashSkills for free today and see the difference it can make to your game…

—-

Nick Matthew is a three-time World Champion, two-time Commonwealth Games Gold medal winner and the most successful British squash player of all time. Known most for his physical strength and unrelenting determination, ‘The Wolf’ is one of the toughest competitors on the PSA World Tour and recently became the oldest man ever to win a PSA World Series event. But along side his physical prowess Matthew is also a clinical exponent of counter-attacking squash and he utilises one weapon more than any other against his opponents with devastating effect:

HIS KILLER FOREHAND VOLLEY DROP:

The 34-year-old from Sheffield is a tireless combatant who has won almost every title there is in the squash arena. A physical powerhouse, Matthew’s tenacity has seen him win countless titles against opponents who he has openly said are more talented with the racket than he, but his forehand volley drop is a shot recognised throughout the tour as one of the most clinical around.

We got the three-time World Champion to take time out from his schedule to talk us through the technique he uses to make this one of the most deadly shots on the PSA World Tour and he emphasises the importance of the three P’s – preparation, preparation and preparation.

1 PREPARATION: FOOTWORK

To take the ball early and therefore take time away from your opponent, you want to be quick off the mark. Your first step should be diagonally across the space towards the front corner – if you don’t prepare your feet the ball will be past you before you’ve got a chance to attack. It doesn’t matter if you take the shot on your right leg or left leg, position yourself in the most comfortable way for you.

2 PREPARATION: MIND

In order to get your feet in the right position to attack, you need to be aware of what your opponent is doing and speed of mind to see the ball clearly and early is vital.