Second Serve Return Taught to Iga Swiatek

Key Points

• Returns are different to “normal” forehands or backhands, as the ball is coming from a different angle
• Iga Swiatek would hit “easy” second serve returns with 100% accuracy before progressing
• Use “easy” serves first to perfect the technique of using your legs, taking short swings and catching the ball as high as possible
• "Blocked hips” is a good thing and is when you don’t over rotate and lose control of the shot
• “Load” the hips and drive through the shot
• Use targets to direct the return
• Make contact with the ball as high as possible and push your opponent back with an attacking return
• Start with 10 to 15 very easy serves until the player is consistent with it, and then increase the pace
• “Search” for the ball by stepping in and taking the return early
• Iga Swiatek developed amazing second serve returns by practicing it for 10 to 15 minutes every training session consistently over 4 years