When it comes to the return of service, not much is spoken. Rarely do you see someone genuinely practise, serve and return. Some of the renowned tennis classes Dubai definitely work on the return of serve practices but most in the world don’t. The major reason is because it’s difficult to get someone who would continuously serve you! The fact that the ball is in a different location each time you hit it makes it challenging to practise the same return stroke. Rarely will a server hit serve at exactly the same speed and spin in the exact same location in the service box. Return of the serve is extremely important in tennis and if you are a good returner, you can even score a point in the return. Below are some of the tips you must follow to be at the top of the service returns in tennis.
1. Always be ready and prepared for the serve
Tennis is a game that is played at the speed of the server. The returner had better be prepared to catch the ball if the server is prepared to throw it up. Be on the lookout and make sure you mentally prepare well before you see the server get to the front of the line to serve. When the ball is served, the point has begun, and you only have time to respond. Being prepared and ready for the serve will definitely make you a better returner and you will be able to take control over the rally from the first shot itself.
2. Stand in the proper position
Many beginners and intermediates are unsure about their positions when they return. Anywhere between a foot in front of and two feet behind the baseline is a decent starting point. To align with the side singles line, place the outer foot there. From there, you may modify your position based on the server’s skill. Professionals sometimes stand 10 to 15 feet behind the baseline to return; this is not advised for the typical player.
3. Maintain your body balance
With your knees slightly bent, your posture should evenly distribute your weight between your right and left legs. It needs to be in what most trainers refer to as an “athletic posture”. Your weight should be on the balls of your feet, slightly forward. You should be ready to respond swiftly in any way since the server may choose to serve to your right or left. If your body balance is not good, the return will not be good.
4. Short backswing while returning
You should concentrate on utilising a short backswing to strike your return shot unless the opponent serve is very flimsy and gives you plenty of time to line up and execute a complete forehand or backhand. Use the power of the server. It will be simpler for you to time a great return utilising a backswing that is 50% shorter or more condensed. Less of your own work and more of the server’s speed will be used.
5. Proper grip
Proper grip of the racquet while returning the serve is one of the most important things you must remember while returning the serve. There might be tight, loose, short or long grips depending upon the serve the opponent does and if you hold the racquet in the right grip while receiving the serve, it is most likely that you will be able to return it wherever you desire. This will make your opponent uncomfortable from the first shot itself and the probability of winning the rally will become higher for you.
