The return is the second most important shot in tennis after the serve, and it is often the most neglected. A solid return neutralizes big serves and starts the point on your terms. Here is how to return like a pro.
Quick answer: To return a serve, start in an athletic ready position, split step as the server strikes the ball, shorten your backswing, and react. Against a fast serve, block it back; against a slower serve, drive it. Aim deep and down the middle when in doubt, and just get the return in play to start the point.
Get Ready Before the Serve
- Ready position: knees bent, weight forward, racket out in front, eyes on the ball toss.
- Position: stand around the baseline, adjusting depth for fast or slow servers.
- Split step: do a small hop just as the server contacts the ball so you can move either way.
Read the toss and body to anticipate direction. Learn the serve you are facing in our serve and grip guide.
Shorten Your Backswing
The biggest key to returning is a compact backswing. You have very little time, so take the racket back only a little and use the incoming pace. A long swing leads to late, mishit returns.
Block vs Drive Returns
|
Return |
When to use |
How |
|
Block return |
Against fast, powerful serves |
Short, firm punch, like a volley from the baseline |
|
Drive return |
Against slower, softer serves |
A compact groundstroke swing with control |
|
Chip/slice return |
To stay safe and approach |
Short slice to keep it low and buy time |
Start by simply blocking returns back deep, then add drives as you get comfortable.
Where to Aim
- Deep and down the middle: the safest target, reduces the server’s angles.
- Cross-court: a longer, safer diagonal with more margin.
- At the feet: if the server rushes the net, aim low at their feet.
When in doubt, just get the return deep and in play. A return in the court beats a risky miss.
Common Return Mistakes (and Fixes)
- Big backswing: shorten it, block the fast ones.
- No split step: time a small hop to the server’s contact.
- Flat feet and late reaction: stay on the balls of your feet, ready to move.
- Going for too much: aim deep and safe first, attack once you read the serve.
Drills to Practice Returns
- Block drill: have a partner serve; focus only on a short, firm block back.
- Split-step timing: split step every serve to sharpen your timing.
- Target deep: place a marker deep in the court and aim returns there.
- Alternate sides: practice returning to both the deuce and ad courts.
Put it together with the basic rules and how to play tennis for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you return a serve in tennis?
Start ready, split step as the server hits, shorten your backswing, and block or drive the ball back deep to start the point.
How do I return a fast serve?
Block it. Use a short, firm punch like a baseline volley and let the serve’s pace do the work.
Where should I aim my return?
Deep and down the middle is safest. Cross-court gives good margin, and at the feet is best against a serve-and-volleyer.
Why do I keep mistiming returns?
Usually a backswing that is too long or a missing split step. Shorten the swing and time your split step to the server’s contact.
Final Thoughts
A great return is compact, well-timed, and deep. Get ready, split step, shorten your swing, and simply start the point in your favor. Drill your timing and the return becomes a weapon. Move well on court in Olaben tennis apparel.
