What Is a Double Fault in Tennis? Causes, Rules, and How to Avoid It
What Is a Double Fault in Tennis?
The serve starts every point, but it also carries risk. When a player misses both serve attempts on the same point, the result is a double fault. This article explains what a double fault is, why it happens, and how players can reduce it.
Definition of a Double Fault
A double fault occurs when a server commits two consecutive faults while attempting to serve a single point. Because tennis allows only two serve attempts per point, missing both results in an immediate loss of the point for the server.
What Counts as a Fault?
- The serve lands outside the correct service box
- The ball hits the net and does not land in
- A foot fault (stepping on or inside the baseline before contact)
- The server misses the ball entirely
Why Double Faults Happen
Second-Serve Pressure
Players often slow down or alter their motion on the second serve to avoid missing. This change in rhythm can reduce spin and margin, increasing the chance of error.
Poor Toss Consistency
An inconsistent ball toss disrupts timing and balance, leading to rushed or mistimed serves.
Technical Breakdown
Late pronation, weak leg drive, or improper grip can all contribute to unreliable serves.
Mental Factors
Nerves, tight matches, and break-point pressure often lead to tentative second serves and double faults.
Double Faults and Match Momentum
Double faults are especially damaging because they give away free points. A poorly timed double fault can swing momentum, frustrate the server, and energize the opponent.
How to Reduce Double Faults
Develop a Reliable Second Serve
Use topspin or slice to increase net clearance and consistency rather than trying to hit flat serves.
Maintain the Same Motion
Keep your second-serve motion similar to your first serve, adjusting spin instead of mechanics.
Practice Under Pressure
Simulate match pressure in practice by serving only second serves or playing games where double faults carry penalties.
Focus on Targets
Aiming for safer zones within the service box improves margin and reduces risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a double fault always lose the point?
Yes. A double fault immediately awards the point to the returner.
Do professionals double fault often?
Even elite players double fault, especially under pressure. However, top players typically keep their double-fault rate low through reliable second serves.
Is a double fault the same as a foot fault?
No. A foot fault is a type of serve fault. Two faults of any kind on the same point result in a double fault.
Conclusion
A double fault is one of the few ways to lose a point without a rally, making it particularly costly. By understanding its causes and developing a dependable second serve, players at all levels can reduce errors and gain confidence on serve.