What Are Some Tips For A Good Serve?

A good serve in tennis depends on your level e.g. if you’re an absolute beginner, just getting the ball in play could be classed as a good serve. If you’re a pro the definition changes somewhat!

The one common thread at all levels is the need for a good ball placement. I prefer the word placement to toss or throw as it suggests a slower, more precise action.

Hold the ball lightly just below your fingertips. You need to place the ball up at between 12.00 & 1.00 on a clock face, approx 6-12” in front of the baseline (depending on your height) & high enough for the ball to drop about 12” into your contact zone.

Your left foot (assuming you’re right handed) should point towards the net post on your right. This will help align your body correctly and give you a consistent starting position.

The ‘placing’ arm should be relaxed & fairly straight. The movement comes from the shoulder and it’s a slow, deliberate action. Many issues with the ball placement are the result of a rushed, jerky action. 

Your left foot (assuming you’re right handed) should point towards the net post on your right. This will help align your body correctly and give you a consistent starting position.

I’d start with the racket and ball together pointing in the direction you want the ball to travel. Bring both arms down so that the ball is between both knees and then split the arms. Raise the placing arm slowly, releasing the ball between eye level and the top of your head with your arm in line with your front foot.

Remember, the arm should be pretty straight with no movement in the wrist or elbow. Before, during & after release, the palm of the hand should be facing upwards.

If you release too early the ball will go too far forwards and if you leave it late the ball will end up behind you. Servers stretching awkwardly to hit an errant ball is a common sight at club level!

I have been coaching for over forty years and the serve is by far the most challenging shot for most players and placing the ball up accurately is the most difficult part off the shot. The good news, however, is that if you treat it as a skill to master and devote some time to it, you will quickly see your serve improve.

Try putting a target down a few inches directly in front of your front foot. Place the ball up, remembering it should be approx 12” above your contact. Persevere & you will prevail!

Once you have mastered the ball placement you can move onto the other important ingredients for a good serve:

1. Use a chopper/continental grip
2. Be as loose as possible and ‘throw’ the racket up towards the ball
3. Contact at the highest point, just in front of you at between 12.00-1.00
4. Let the racket decelerate safely down your left side.