The underhand serve has long been misunderstood, dismissed as a desperate move or even unsportsmanlike. But if you think it’s just a gimmick, you’re missing out on one of tennis’s most strategic weapons.
When used correctly, the underhand serve can disrupt your opponent’s rhythm, exploit positioning weaknesses, and even win you crucial points.
Why the underhand serve is more than just a trick
Many players assume that a powerful overhand serve is the ultimate way to start a point. But what happens when your opponent stands far behind the baseline, waiting to crush your second serve?
This is where the underhand serve becomes a tactical masterpiece. It forces your opponent to sprint forward, breaking their preferred return position and making them uncomfortable from the start.
Even legends of the game have used it effectively. Nick Kyrgios, Michael Chang, and even Rafael Nadal have incorporated the underhand serve to throw off opponents. If the pros can do it, why shouldn’t you?
When to use the underhand serve
The underhand serve isn’t something you should use mindlessly. It’s a calculated move that works best in the following situations:
Against deep returners
If your opponent camps out metres behind the baseline, this serve can force them to adjust their positioning, disrupting their rhythm.
In high-pressure moments
If you feel tension in your regular serve or are dealing with second-serve nerves, an underhand serve can be a viable alternative to avoid double faults.
On fast courts
The element of surprise is amplified on grass and hard courts, where a low-bouncing ball can be especially tricky to attack.
To break an opponent’s momentum
If your opponent has been reading your serves well, using this serve can make them hesitate and second-guess their return positioning.
How to execute the perfect underhand serve
Here’s how you can make this type of serve into an effective weapon and outsmart your opponent:
Disguise your intentions
Great underhand serves come when your opponent least expects them. Maintain your regular serving stance, keeping your racket preparation similar to a standard serve.
Use a soft grip for better control
Holding the racket loosely allows you to generate spin and precision rather than power. A continental grip works well for achieving the necessary touch.
Apply backspin or side spin
A simple tap won’t do. Instead, slice under the ball to create backspin, causing it to stay low and skid upon landing. Alternatively, using side spin can make the ball curve away from your opponent’s reach.
Aim for the side lines or short angles
The best underhand serves aren’t just short, they’re placed in uncomfortable positions. A well-angled serve to the forehand or a short ball that forces your opponent wide makes returning much harder.
Follow up aggressively
Don’t assume the point is over after the serve. Stay alert, move forward, and be ready to attack the weak return that often follows an underhand serve.
Common mistakes to avoid
While the underhand serve can be a powerful tool, using it incorrectly can backfire. Here are some common mistakes players make:
Telegraphing the serve: If you change your stance or hesitate too long, your opponent will anticipate the underhand serve and attack it easily.
Hitting too softly: While you don’t need power, a serve that barely makes it over the net is easy to pounce on.
Lack of variety: If you use it too often, your opponent will start reading it. Mix it into your serving strategy rather than relying on it as your primary serve.
Poor follow-up: An underhand serve should be followed by an aggressive approach or a strategic positioning shift to capitalise on your opponent’s response.
Psychology behind the technique
Beyond the technical aspects, the underhand serve plays a psychological role in matches. Many players react emotionally to it. Some see it as an insult, others get thrown off their game entirely. This mental disruption can be just as valuable as the shot itself.
Imagine a tight match where your opponent expects a typical second serve, but you suddenly deliver a well-placed underhand serve. They might rush forward, miss their timing, or lose focus in frustration. At the club level, where mental resilience isn’t as strong as in the pros, this tactic can swing momentum in your favour.
Debunking the “unsportsmanlike” myth
Some critics argue that this serve is unsportsmanlike. But tennis is a game of strategy, not brute force. There’s no rule against it, and it remains a legitimate tool for outthinking your opponent. If someone calls it cheap, remind them that every great champion adapts their game to exploit weaknesses.
Tennis isn’t just about hitting hard, it’s about playing smart.
Incorporating the underhand serve into your game
If you’re serious about improving your strategy, start integrating the underhand serve into your practice sessions. Experiment with different spins, placements, and disguises. Try using it in friendly matches to gauge its effectiveness before unleashing it in competition.
Mastering the underhand serve is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly elevate your game, you need a complete tactical approach that outsmarts your opponents at every turn. Transform your strategy with Fuzzy Yellow Balls coaching.
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