Here’s a question that might stir up some debate: Have we, as tennis players and coaches, become so fixated on baseline battles that we’re ignoring the tactics that actually win matches? It’s time to take a closer look at a strategy many have dismissed as outdated—the serve-and-volley.

Let’s face it: In today’s game, we’re obsessed with long rallies, grinding it out from the baseline, and wearing down opponents with consistent, powerful shots. But what if that’s not always the best approach? What if moving forward, taking risks, and rushing the net could give you the upper hand in crucial moments?

The Power of Serve-and-Volley: A Strategy Worth Revisiting

Consider this: In a high-stakes match, when the pressure is on and both players are locked in a baseline battle, it’s often the unexpected move that makes the difference. Serving and volleying—once a staple of the game—has almost become a lost art. Yet, when it’s used strategically, it can completely disrupt your opponent’s rhythm and shift the momentum in your favor.

Here’s a scenario to think about: Imagine you’re in the final set of a grueling match. Both you and your opponent have been trading blows from the baseline, and it feels like you’re stuck in a never-ending loop of long rallies. What if, instead of continuing to slug it out from the back of the court, you surprise your opponent by rushing the net? The element of surprise, combined with the pressure of executing under duress, can lead to mistakes—even from the best players.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

In a recent major tournament final, one of the world’s top players won nearly half of their points by forcing their opponent into errors through serve-and-volley tactics. Despite being known for their baseline consistency, this player recognised that when the rallies became too intense, the net offered a fresh and effective alternative.

What’s more, the match statistics showed that the average rally length was the longest the player had faced throughout the tournament. This wasn’t just a fluke—it was a deliberate shift in strategy to counter the relentless baseline pressure. By moving forward and attacking the net, they were able to change the dynamic of the match and ultimately secure the win.

Why Aren’t More Players Using This Strategy?

So, why are we so reluctant to incorporate more serve-and-volley into our game? Is it because we’re stuck in the mindset that modern tennis is all about power and baseline consistency? Or are we simply too afraid to take the risk, to step out of our comfort zone, and adopt a strategy that could make us truly unpredictable on the court?

It’s time to challenge these assumptions. The success of serve-and-volley in high-stakes matches should serve as a wake-up call. If you’re not considering this tactic as part of your arsenal, you’re limiting your potential. You’re sticking to what’s safe, what’s conventional, instead of exploring strategies that could give you a real edge.

The Takeaway: Don’t Be Afraid to Break the Mold

At 10is Academy, we believe in preparing our players to be versatile, unpredictable, and ready to adapt to any situation. That means revisiting tactics that some might consider outdated, but which can still win you the biggest matches. 

So, next time you’re locked in a baseline battle and things aren’t going your way, ask yourself: Is it time to mix things up? The answer might just be to serve and volley. And if you’re not ready to take that step, maybe it’s time to rethink your approach. Because in tennis, as in life, sometimes the best way forward is to break away from the crowd and do what others won’t.

Are you ready to take your game to the next level? At 10is Academy, we’ll help you explore every tactic, every strategy, and every opportunity to make you a more complete player. Don’t just play the game—own it.