Statistic•Tennis
Return of Serve
The return of serve is the receiver's first shot in response to the opponent's serve.
service returnreturn game
Plain definition
The return is the first shot played against the opponent's serve. A strong return can neutralise the server's initial advantage, start the rally on balanced terms or apply immediate pressure. Return quality includes consistency, aggression and overall effectiveness.
Derived terms
Return Points Won%
The percentage of points a player wins while receiving serve.
Why it matters
Returning is central to a player's ability to create break opportunities. A strong returner can offset an average serve by placing the opponent under constant pressure and can remain competitive even against powerful servers.
Practical example
Against a powerful server, a player repeatedly puts the ball back in play and forces the opponent into rallies. The return is reducing the server's advantage.
Related terms
Statistic•Tennis
Break
A break occurs when the receiving player wins the opponent's service game.
Statistic•Tennis
Break Points (BP)
A break point is a point on which the receiver can win the opponent's service game.