The Serve and Return Blueprint: Simple Fixes with Big Results

Improving your serve and return isn’t about reinventing your swing—sometimes it’s just about fixing your toss and using your legs. In this lesson, Kennedy offers game-changing tips for players struggling with consistency, spin, and depth on their serve. She starts with the fundamentals: contact out in front, not over the waist, with a toss that isn’t erratic or side-flung like a game of dodgeball. From there, she adds the crucial detail—aiming for depth, adding topspin, and using your hips—not just your arm—for acceleration. If your serve’s been landing in the middle of the box or worse, now you know why.

On the return side, it all begins with your feet. Kennedy emphasizes momentum and movement—players need to glide through the ball, not stop short or sprint through like it’s a track meet. Good returns start with a split step, an athletic stance, and the intention to move forward. And when it comes to swing mechanics? Less is more. Compact motion, no wild backswing, and firm wrists make for cleaner, more repeatable shots. The real goal: efficiency and getting to the kitchen line quickly, not looking flashy and falling behind.

As for spin—don’t let the pros fool you. While topspin returns and serves can be devastating, you’re better off hitting consistent slices or flat shots than flailing at a ball with bad timing. Use what works for you now and develop more advanced spins later. Whether you’re building depth through better toss technique or using kinetic energy for more power, these practical fixes will clean up your fundamentals fast. Watch the pros, sure—but fix your serve and return with Kennedy’s tips, and you’ll start playing like one too.