Return Like a Pro: Mastering the Art of the Tennis Return
Returning serve is one of the most important aspects of tennis, yet many players overlook its true potential. A well-executed return can completely shift the momentum of a match, setting you up to win the point right from the start. By improving your return, you can become more aggressive and put pressure on your opponent from the very first shot. Here’s how you can elevate your return of serve to the next level.
Positioning: The Key to Quick Reactions
To set yourself up for success, it’s essential to find the right position on the court. You don’t want to be too close to the baseline, where you might feel rushed, nor too far back, where it’s harder to react to fast serves. Generally, standing a few feet behind the baseline allows enough time to react to both fast and slower serves. For faster serves, position yourself deeper; for slower second serves, you can step up closer to the baseline to be more aggressive.
Read the Toss: Predict the Serve
A key to improving your return is learning how to read the server’s toss. By watching where they toss the ball, you can predict where the serve is likely to go. A high toss might signal a topspin or kick serve, while a low toss may mean a slice or body serve. Tracking the toss gives you a better chance to position yourself correctly and prepare for the serve before it even leaves the server’s racquet.
Footwork: Stay Light and Ready
Footwork is the foundation of a solid return. Always be ready with a small split step right as your opponent is about to hit the ball. This helps you react quickly, allowing you to move in any direction as soon as the ball is hit. Stay light on your feet, with knees slightly bent and weight on the balls of your feet. This stance will allow you to step into the ball and return it with control and power.
Grip and Stance: Choose What Works for You
The right grip and stance can make a huge difference in your return. For most returns, the Eastern grip is a good option, giving you a balance of power and control. If you’re using a two-handed backhand, make sure your bottom hand is in a continental grip to give you better control and stability. Whatever grip you choose, make sure it allows you to react quickly, get into position, and strike the ball cleanly.
Attack the Second Serve
Second serves present a great opportunity to attack. They’re usually slower than first serves, giving you more time to set up your return. Step inside the baseline and take the ball early, aiming to return it aggressively. Whether you go for topspin, slice, or a flatter shot, make sure to put pressure on your opponent by being as aggressive as possible on the second serve.
Consistency Over Power
While big returns can win points, consistency is key. It’s more important to get the ball in the court and maintain the rally than to try for a winner every time. Work on making your returns consistent and accurate, aiming for deep corners or down the middle to keep your opponent guessing. A well-placed return can be just as effective as a powerful one and often leads to more success in the long run.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes players make is poor timing. It’s easy to either hit the ball too early or too late, which throws off your shot. Focus on timing the ball so that you contact it in front of your body for better control and power. Another mistake is not keeping your eyes on the ball. Stay focused on the ball from the moment the opponent tosses it until it contacts your racquet. Lastly, make sure you're not standing still. You need to adjust your position based on the serve’s speed and spin, and staying in motion will help you react quicker.
