The tennis volley serve: master the art of the fast attack

The volley serve is a tactic that aims to catch your opponent off-guard right from the start of the point. The idea is simple: after delivering a powerful, precise serve, you immediately go up to the net to attack the next ball with a volley. The aim is to reduce your opponent’s reaction time, preventing them from building the point or finding a solid defensive position. This style of play was very popular in the days of grass courts, particularly in the 90s, but it remains a formidable weapon for players who know how to execute it correctly.

The advantages of the volley serve

• Constant pressure on the opponent: By coming up to the net immediately after the serve, you impose immediate pressure. The opponent has to attempt a precise return under pressure, which increases the chances of them making a mistake or giving you a ball that’s easy to finish.
• Shorter rallies: This strategy allows you to play faster points, which can be very useful against players who like long rallies at the back of the court.
• Saves energy: Because the points are shorter, you save energy, which is particularly advantageous in long matches or on fast surfaces like grass.

The risks of the volley serve

• Vulnerability to lobs and passing shots: If your rise to the net is not perfectly executed or if your volley lacks precision, you are exposed to passing shots or well-placed lobs from your opponent.
• Dependence on a good serve: Without a powerful, well-placed serve, the opponent can easily anticipate your rise and play an aggressive return, making the volley difficult or impossible to execute.

The volley service is particularly effective in certain match situations:

• On fast surfaces: On courts such as grass or fast hard courts, the ball bounces very little, which reduces the opponent’s reaction time and favours short points.
• Against defensive players: If you’re playing against an opponent who prefers to stay at the back of the court and excels in long exchanges, the volley serve can be a way of destabilising him.
• To surprise your opponent: Varying between playing from the baseline and coming up to the net with a volley serve can confuse your opponent, especially if he’s not expecting this type of aggression.

Even if stolen service is an effective strategy, certain mistakes can reduce its impact. Here are the pitfalls to avoid:

• A badly placed serve: A serve that is too centred or lacking in power exposes your rise to the net, giving your opponent time to prepare a passing shot or lob.
• Poor anticipation of the return: Going to the net too quickly without paying attention to your opponent’s return can leave you vulnerable to aggressive shots. It’s important to read the return carefully before rushing.
• Volleying too quickly: Many players make the mistake of volleying too quickly, without taking the time to place their shot properly. A well-placed volley is often more effective than a powerful but poorly controlled one.