Service Return Tips

Experience what it is like to emotionally hit a great return before you do it.

Position yourself to cover all the possibilities.

Experiment to find the best spot according to your reflexes to cover fast serves down the middle and to keep someone from slicing you very wide.

Watch the ball in the toss as it leaves the server's hand.

Do not try to beat your opponent with uncontrolled offense. Instead, try to keep from being beaten by controlled defense.

In the beginning, concentrate on getting your returns back. You can often win points by the error of the other player.

Move into the ball when returning, this gets more weight behind the ball.

Turn your shoulders to return, this is one of the most important aspects of returning serve.

The size and height of the backswing depends on the height, length and speed of the ball you are trying to handle. Shorter backswings on fast serves, longer backswings on slower spin serves.

Don't panic when returning. Shorten your backswing and keep a nice smooth tempo.

Against a net rusher return low and short. Against a baseliner return deep and softer.

Don't push your return, stroke it back. Make the server think about what you might do next.

When playing a serve-and-volleyer keep your returns low and dipping by hitting fairly flat or with moderate topspin.

On 30-40, second serve, try standing in the doubles alley for the return. This will create an element of surprise for the server and may force a double fault.

Play the ball not the opponent.

Try to win the points on the first court (forehand side), this will keep you in front and put pressure on the server.