Doubles: Serve to Lefty Deuce Side
Serving to a lefty in the doubles deuce court offers a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Here’s how to ace it, pun intended:
1. Wide Serves are Gold: Targeting the wide serve on the deuce side is a stellar move against a lefty. This serve will stretch them out to their backhand side, potentially pulling them off the court and opening up space for you to exploit with your next shot. Plus, it’s a great way to start the point with them on the defensive.
2. Mix in the T Serve: Don’t forget about serving down the T (the center service line). While the wide serve is your bread and butter on this side, mixing in serves down the T keeps the returner guessing. This serve aims at their backhand, which can be a bit more awkward for them to return effectively, especially if they’re leaning towards expecting a wide serve.
3. Body Serve for the Win: Serving right at the body is an underrated strategy. It can jam the lefty up, making it tough for them to swing freely. This can result in a weaker return, giving you and your net partner a good chance to take control of the net early in the point.
4. Serve and Volley to Mix Things Up: Following your serve to the net can add pressure on the left-handed returner. It’s a classic move that works wonders by forcing them to hit a precise return. Just be ready for a quick exchange, as they might try to lob over your net player or find an angle past you.
Remember, the goal is to keep your opponent guessing and uncomfortable. By varying your serves and incorporating some strategic serve and volley plays, you’ll be setting up the point in your favor from the get-go. Practice these serves to find what works best for you and have fun out there. Tennis is as much a mental game as it is physical, so stay positive and enjoy the match!