Return Targets & Strategies: Neutralize First Serves, Attack Seconds

Key Points

• First Serve Returns: Neutralize with Depth

  • Primary target = deep down the middle

    • Biggest margin for error

    • Reduces opponent's angle on next shot

    • Maximizes consistency on tough first serves

  • Goal: Neutralize the server and stay in the point

  • Even if not perfectly centered, aiming middle gives best odds of getting the ball back in play

• Second Serve Returns: Attack with Intent

  • Aggressive middle return

    • Can force immediate error or weak reply

    • Creates opportunity to dictate with the next shot

  • “Rip the return” approach:

    • Hit big to a central target with margin

    • High reward, low risk compared to trying for corners

• “Pulling the Return” Concept

  • Pre-select a target across your body (e.g. backhand cross, forehand down the line)

    • For righties: forehand return on ad side = pull down the line

    • For backhand return = pull crosscourt

  • Benefits:

    • Reduces risk of late timing errors going wide

    • Provides natural directional control with margin

    • Still effective even if mistimed slightly (ball lands middle or safe side)