When watching tennis matches, one question often comes up: why do some players always seem to make the right tactical choices, anticipate better, and stay one step ahead?
The serve and the return are two key shots in tennis. They set the rhythm of the rally and very often determine the next shot. Understanding serve and return strategies is already a major step toward a more efficient and consistent game, even in the most stressful moments.
The second serve: a shot often misunderstood
Let’s start with the second serve, which is very often the weakest shot for many players. It is commonly seen as a “safe” ball, something just meant to go in. However, for good players, the second serve is offensive, intentional, and engaging.
What tactical objectives on a second serve?
On a second serve, several intentions are possible:
- put the ball in play safely
- disrupt the opponent
- create a favorable situation for the next shot
The goal is not maximum power, but control, spin, and accuracy, with a clear intention based on the opponent and their weaker side.
Success rate among top players
At the highest level, second-serve reliability is extremely high. We often talk about around 97% success and an average of only 2 to 4 double faults per match.
This clearly shows the importance of reliability above all.
Some figures:
To reassure some of you, here are a few 2025 statistics showing the highest average number of double faults per match on the ATP Tour:
1. Denis Shapovalov: 6.29 DF per match
2. Alexander Bublik: 5.07 DF per match
3. Daniil Medvedev: 4.33 DF per match
Spins used by young players
Among young players (under 12), the spins used on the second serve usually follow a logical progression:
- priority to slice
- then topspin
- flat serves come later
The primary objective is to secure the serve and control the trajectory. In addition, topspin serves are very demanding on the joints—especially the shoulder—so slice is often prioritized to help prevent injuries.
Most targeted serve zones
On the second serve, the most commonly targeted areas are:
- the opponent’s backhand
- the body
These zones limit the aggressiveness of the return and help the server keep control of the point.
The first serve: setting the framework of the point
The first serve is an offensive shot, but once again, tactics matter more than raw power.
Main tactical objectives
On the first serve, the goals are to:
- take control from the start of the point
- put pressure on the opponent
- sometimes finish the point directly
But hitting an ace is not mandatory. The real objective remains to create a favorable situation for the next shot.
Success rate at the highest level
Among top players, first-serve percentage generally ranges between 60% and 70%.
This highlights the delicate balance between risk-taking and consistency.
Interesting fact: Jannik Sinner, currently world No. 2, is not even in the top 40 for first-serve percentage (62%), unlike Alexander Zverev (world No. 3), who averages 72%.
However, Sinner ranks No. 1 in points won behind his first serve (79%) and in service games won, with an impressive 92% of service games held.
Preferred spins for young players
For young players, the spins used on the first serve are often:
- Slice: to increase first-serve percentage
- Flat: to start developing speed and looking for winners
- Topspin: to hit “safe first serves,” surprise the opponent, secure the serve, or approach the net
The idea is to learn variation without skipping essential development stages.
Serve placement
Serve zones (wide, body, T) are essential reference points.
Knowing where to serve is just as important as how to serve.
The return of serve: adapting before attacking
The return is a shot based on reading, reaction, and adaptation.
Positioning against a big server
When facing a powerful and precise server, return positioning becomes crucial.
The main objectives are to:
- put the ball back into play
- neutralize the server’s advantage
Positioning against a slow or short serve
On the other hand, against a slower or shorter serve, the returner can:
- step forward
- take the ball earlier
- impose their own tactics
Return target zones
- against a powerful first serve: safe zones, depth, consistency—preferably deep down the middle or crosscourt
- against a slower second serve: open angles, initiative, point construction—preferably short crosscourt or down the line
Serve + 1 / Return + 1: the real tactical key
Tennis never stops at the serve or the return. You must be ready for the next shot, whatever happens. Very often, amateur players hit a good serve or return, then stop and watch their shot.
The objective is always to plan your first two shots on every point. This requires reflection, visualization, and tactical awareness to significantly increase your chances of winning the point.
- Serve + 1: serve while already thinking about the next shot. The goal of your serve is to allow you to use your strongest shot after the return. Roger Federer, former world No. 1, was one of the best players in this area. His game plan: an aggressive serve followed by his forehand played into open space—either left or right.
- Return + 1: return while anticipating the continuation of the rally. Here too, the goal is for your return to support your preferred tactical pattern. For example, a deep crosscourt return pushes your opponent back, giving you more time to recover, read the next shot, and take the initiative.
This is where tactics truly come into play.
Understanding better to play better
All these questions and reflections highlight one essential truth:
tennis is a sport of information gathering, analysis, and decision-making.
Understanding serve and return strategies allows you to:
- play with greater clarity
- reduce pressure
- have a plan, even in key moments
This is exactly the work I do with my players: bringing meaning and structure to the game, to achieve long-term progress and performance—whatever your level.
To deepen your understanding of tennis tactics, I recommend visiting the ATP Tour statistics website, which provides extensive match data and helps develop tactical awareness:
https://atptour.com/en/stats/
Go further in your progression
If you want to improve your serve, your return, and your overall tactical game, I support you with a personalized approach adapted to your playing style.