Learning to watch the return, not just the serve

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The other opening move

The server begins the exchange, but the returner helps decide its shape. A change of position can signal a different intention before the ball is struck.

What a return can offer

A return does not have to be aggressive to be useful. Finding depth or buying time can create a more balanced next shot. The choice depends on the incoming serve and the pattern a player wants to build.

Start your next match here

Watch the return position for a full service game. Notice when it changes and what follows. Those adjustments offer another way to read a contest that can otherwise appear to revolve around the server.