Tip of the Week: Stand In On the Opponent’s Second Serve

Returning the second serve in a tennis match can be the key to success or failure.

Most players’ second serve is the weakest part of their game, and many players do whatever they can just to get the shot in. The speed of the second serve usually drops off severely because of this.

Try standing in several steps whenever your opponent misses the first serve. Also, as the server starts their motion, take a few more steps to help favor your strongest shot. Moving in and adjusting your position can put some serious pressure on the opponent, often resulting in an even weaker serve, as well as some double faults. This is also going to put additional stress on their first serve and may negate it as a weapon.

Challenge yourself to stand in on your opponent’s second serve and gain control of more points by taking time away and making them think about the consequences of a weak second serve.