Improving Your Return of Serve: Techniques and Strategies

The return of serve is one of the most crucial shots in tennis. A strong return sets the tone for a rally and can immediately put the server under pressure. Yet many players overlook this aspect of their game. This article explores the keys to effective returns, from positioning and anticipation to footwork and swing mechanics.

Why the Return Matters

Breaking serve is often decisive in a match. A confident returner can neutralise big serves, create early opportunities and dictate play. Even if you don’t hit winners off returns, consistently getting the ball back deep forces your opponent to play another shot.

Positioning and Anticipation

Court Position

Stand slightly behind or inside the baseline, depending on the surface and your reflexes. Some coaches recommend standing a metre behind the baseline to give yourself time, then moving forward into the court as the ball travels. Your stance should be wide and athletic, with knees bent and weight on the balls of your feet.

Reading the Serve

Observe your opponent’s toss and body language to anticipate serve direction and spin. Watch the server’s toss position: a toss farther to their right (for right‑handers) often indicates a slice or wide serve; a toss above the head may suggest a flat or body serve. Anticipation allows you to react faster and take time away from your opponent.

Footwork and Timing

Split Step and First Move

Just as the server makes contact, perform a small split step by hopping and landing on the balls of your feet. This prepares your muscles to push explosively in any direction. Immediately pivot and take your first step toward the ball. Good footwork is essential for a balanced return and allows you to swing with confidence.

Short Backswing and Compact Swing

Unlike groundstrokes, returns benefit from a shorter backswing. Use a compact motion to meet the ball early and take advantage of the server’s pace. On high‑speed serves, simply blocking the ball with a firm grip and minimal swing can be effective. On slower serves, you can take a slightly bigger swing and add topspin.

Technical Tips for Returns

1. Grip Adjustment: For forehand returns, use your regular forehand grip. For backhand returns, decide whether to slice or hit topspin. Many players choose a continental grip for slice returns and a semi‑western or eastern backhand grip for topspin returns.
2. Body Rotation: Rotate your hips and shoulders into the shot. This helps you generate power even with a short backswing. Keep your head still and eyes on the ball.
3. Point of Contact: Aim to meet the ball out in front of your body. Hitting late reduces control and often results in weak returns.
4. Follow‑Through: Direct your follow‑through toward your target. For blocking returns, hold your racquet steady; for topspin returns, finish high over your shoulder to impart spin.

Drills to Improve Your Return

1. Partner Serve Practice

Have a partner serve to you repeatedly, alternating between flat, slice and kick serves. Focus on different return types: block, drive and chip. Start by aiming deep down the middle to reduce angles; then practise targeting specific zones like wide corners and the server’s body.

2. Ball Machine or Wall Drills

Use a ball machine to vary speed and spin or practise returning against a wall. Hit 50 returns in a row, focusing on footwork and timing. Challenge yourself to keep the ball low and deep.

3. Serve + First Ball Drill

Simulate match play by practising a sequence: your partner serves, you return, then play out the point. This helps train decision‑making after the return and conditions you to recover quickly.

4. Return Targets

Place cones or markers in the back corners and center of the service box. Aim to hit the ball within these targets to practise precision. Rotate between hitting flat, slice and topspin returns.

FAQs

Q: How do I handle big servers?

A: Stand further back to give yourself more time, shorten your backswing and focus on blocking the ball back deep. Don’t try to do too much with the return; instead, aim for consistency and placement.

Q: Should I always return crosscourt?

A: Returning crosscourt typically provides more space and reduces the risk of missing wide. However, mixing in body and down‑the‑line returns keeps the server guessing and can disrupt their rhythm.

Q: How can I improve my reaction time?

A: Practise split stepping and small first moves. Reaction ball drills and vision training can also help. Staying relaxed and focused before the return helps you respond quickly.

Conclusion

Developing a reliable return of serve takes practice and attention to detail. By adjusting your positioning, refining your footwork and employing a compact swing, you can handle a variety of serves with confidence. Use the drills above to train different aspects of your return and apply these strategies in match play. With time, you’ll turn the return game from a weakness into a strength.