serve-and-volleyreturnat the feet

Why Going Only for Passing Shots Is Difficult Against a Serve-and-Volleyer

A low first return at the feet can make the second ball an easier pass.

Why Going Only for Passing Shots Is Difficult Against a Serve-and-Volleyer

Start with this check

Aiming for a narrow passing angle immediately after a fast serve adds free errors and may give the opponent a comfortable high volley.

Try these steps in order

  1. Shorten the return preparation and target either deep through the middle or low at the feet of the advancing player.
  2. After a low first volley, move inside the court to widen the angle available on the next ball.
  3. Occasionally mix in a high lob return to push the opponent's starting position back.

Bottom line

Beating serve-and-volley is not about a return winner; it is a pattern that creates a difficult first volley and finishes with the second shot.

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Technical evidence

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