How to Return Serve in Tennis: Technique, Strategy, and Drills
How to Return Serve in Tennis: Technique, Strategy, and Drills
The return of serve is one of the most underappreciated skills in tennis. While serves often grab attention for speed and power, matches are frequently decided by how effectively players neutralise or attack their opponent’s serve. A strong return puts immediate pressure on the server and can shift momentum early in rallies.
Why the Return of Serve Matters
The return is the first offensive opportunity for the receiver. A solid return can:
- Take time away from the server
- Prevent easy service winners
- Force longer rallies, where consistency and fitness matter
- Create break-point opportunities
At higher levels, players often break serve not by hitting winners, but by returning consistently and applying constant pressure.
Basic Return Technique
Ready Position
Start with a wide, balanced stance just behind the baseline. Keep your knees bent, weight on the balls of your feet, and racquet held in front with both hands lightly on the grip. This athletic position allows quick movement in any direction.
Split Step Timing
Perform a split step just as the server makes contact with the ball. This small hop primes your legs to react instantly and improves your first step toward the ball.
Compact Swing
Returns require a shorter backswing than groundstrokes. Focus on blocking or redirecting the ball rather than swinging aggressively. The server’s pace supplies most of the power.
Return Positioning
Standing Farther Back
Against big servers, standing a few feet behind the baseline gives you more time to react and allows a fuller swing. This is common on faster surfaces or against heavy kick serves.
Standing Closer to the Baseline
Stepping inside the baseline can rush the server and take time away. This aggressive position works well against slower or less consistent serves.
Types of Returns
- Block return – A simple, firm racquet face that redirects the ball back deep.
- Chip or slice return – Keeps the ball low and neutralises pace.
- Topspin return – Adds margin and depth, ideal against second serves.
Drills to Improve Your Return
Second-Serve Attack Drill
Have a partner feed slower serves. Focus on stepping in and returning deep crosscourt. This builds confidence attacking weaker serves.
Reaction Feed Drill
A partner or coach feeds balls quickly from the service line. React with short swings and aim deep to the middle of the court.
Directional Target Drill
Place targets deep crosscourt and down the line. Alternate return directions to practice placement and disguise.
Split-Step Timing Drill
Without hitting balls, practise split stepping as a partner simulates a serve motion. This improves timing and readiness.
Common Mistakes
- Over-swinging and losing control
- Late split step, reducing reaction time
- Poor positioning that doesn’t match the server’s strengths
- Trying to hit winners too early
Conclusion
A strong return of serve can neutralise even the biggest servers and turn defense into offense instantly. By focusing on compact swings, smart positioning and consistent drills, players at any level can improve their return game. Remember: breaking serve often starts with simply getting the return back deep and making the server play one more ball.