What is Serve in tennis
A serve in tennis is the shot that starts every point in tennis. The server must hit the ball into the opponent’s correct service box to begin the rally.
Detailed Explanation
Every point begins with a serve. Players have two attempts to deliver a legal serve. If the first serve misses, they may take a second serve. Missing both attempts results in a double fault, and the opponent wins the point. Players use different serve types—such as flat, slice, and kick serves—to vary speed, spin, and placement, making it harder for opponents to return the ball.
How It Looks in a Match
Example 1 – Match Situation
A player hits a powerful first serve wide, forcing the opponent to return from outside the court.
Example 2 – Professional Tennis
Top players often mix flat, slice, and kick serves throughout a match to keep opponents guessing and gain an advantage on serve.
Why Serve in Tennis Matters
- Starts every point.
- Gives the server the first attacking opportunity.
- A strong serve can produce aces, service winners and easier follow-up shots.
Related Terms
Learn more about these related tennis terms:
- Ace – a serve the receiver does not touch.
- Service Winner – a serve that is touched but not returned.
- First Serve – the first of two serving attempts.
- Second Serve – the final serving attempt after a first-serve fault.
- Double Fault – losing a point after missing both serves.
- Kick Serve – a serve with heavy topspin that bounces high.
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