Tactics · 5 min read · Oct 9, 2026
The Serve +1: win the point in two shots
Most club points are decided by the first two shots. Here's how intermediate and advanced players plan them.
Pros don't just serve. They serve and plan the next shot before the ball leaves the toss. That plan is called the Serve +1.
Pick one pattern for each side. On the deuce side, serve wide to pull your opponent off the court, then hit your first forehand into the open court. On the ad side, serve into the body to cramp the return, then take the short ball early.
Recover to the middle of the baseline after the serve. Then make a quick read: if the return lands short, step in and take it on the rise.
My cue for you: 'Serve, split, strike.' Say it in your head on every first serve for one full set.
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