Can You Serve Underhand In Tennis?

Tennis is an engaging game that requires players to master different skills, serving being one of them. However, not all tennis players have the ability to serve like the professionals do, and that's okay. Overhand serving can be challenging to execute at times, especially if you are a beginner, and that's where the underhand serve comes into play. In this blog, I will explore whether it is acceptable to serve underhand in tennis and the advantages and disadvantages of employing this technique.

The underhand serve is a legal shot in tennis.

Is Serving Underhand In Tennis Acceptable?

In short, the answer is yes. According to the International Tennis Federation (ITF), serving underhand is legal in tennis, and there is no rule prohibiting it. The ITF rules of tennis state that the ball must be hit after it has been tossed up in the air, and this applies to both overhand and underhand serve. As long as the ball is hit correctly, the serve is valid. Thus, you can opt for the underhand serve, which can come in handy if you are a beginner or struggling to execute an overhand serve.

Advantages Of Serving Underhand In Tennis

Serving underhand in tennis can be advantageous in different ways. Firstly, it is easier to execute than the overhand serve, which is usually the recommended technique but can be challenging to master. With the underhand serve, you can hit the ball accurately, and it can still be a challenging return for your opponent. Secondly, the underhand serve can be unpredictable. Your opponent may be expecting the overhand serve, and when you surprise them with the underhand serve, it can throw off their game, leading to points in your favour.

Disadvantages Of Serving Underhand In Tennis

One of the main disadvantages is that it can be less powerful than the overhand serve. Since the ball is hit from a lower position, it may not generate enough pace or spin to make it challenging to return. Some tennis players may also view the underhand serve as unsportsmanlike. It's essential to read the situation and your opponent before opting for this technique to avoid offending anyone or receiving backlash.

When Is It Suitable To Use The Underhand Serve?

Suppose you're a beginner struggling with the overhand serve or are injured, and serving overhand is painful. In that case, the underhand serve is an acceptable option. It might also be strategic to use the underhand serve if you notice your opponent standing far behind the baseline, in which case you could serve underhand to execute a drop-shot and catch them off guard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, serving underhand in tennis is acceptable and can even be beneficial in certain situations. However, it's essential to balance the use of this technique with overhand serves to keep your opponent guessing and maintain a competitive advantage. Ultimately, what matters most is executing a legal serve that helps you win points during a match. So whether you choose to serve overhand or underhand, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy playing tennis.