In tennis, we often focus on key stats like aces, winners, and unforced errors. But there’s one aspect of the game that deserves more attention: the first point of the service game. It’s a critical moment that can set the tone for the entire game, creating a psychological advantage and determining how a player approaches the rest of the set.

The first point of the game might seem insignificant, but in reality, it holds substantial weight. If you win the first point on your serve, you’ve already gained momentum, making it much easier to hold serve and control the game. On the other hand, losing the first point can make the rest of the service game feel like a constant uphill battle, especially when it leads to a 0-15 or 0-30 start.

THE IMPORTANCE OF STARTING STRONG

Starting with a 15-0 lead in your service game is crucial. When you’re up 15-0, you’re in control of the pace, and it allows you to play more freely. You can go for your shots and feel more confident in your decisions. Contrast that with starting at 0-15—now you’re under pressure from the get-go, and that can affect the way you approach the rest of the game.

It might sound simple, but the difference is huge. Research has shown that when players consistently win the first point of their service game, they hold serve far more often. In fact, players who win the first point on average win over 80% of the time when serving at 15-0, compared to a much lower success rate when starting at 0-15.

THE TACTICAL EDGE: SERVICE PATTERNS AND MENTAL STRENGTH

One of the most important factors in modern tennis is understanding how to apply scoreboard pressure. When your opponent starts behind in their service games, they’re not just dealing with the immediate pressure of the score—they also have to battle their own mentality. Playing from behind creates tension and forces players to be more conservative, making them less likely to take risks with their shots.

When a player starts their service game with 15-0, they can settle into a rhythm and dictate the terms of the game. They can confidently plan their next moves, knowing they have the advantage. Conversely, starting at 0-15 means fighting from the first point, trying to claw your way back into the game while under pressure.

HOW TO LEVERAGE THIS INFORMATION IN YOUR OWN GAME

1. Start strong: Focus on winning the first point in each of your service games. That initial point sets the tone for the entire game. Consider practising your first serve technique, making sure you’re confident and consistent with your opening point.
2. Stay calm under pressure: If you find yourself starting at 0-15, don’t panic. Instead, focus on remaining calm and resetting your strategy. Losing the first point doesn’t mean the game is lost. Use it as an opportunity to show resilience and adjust your approach.
3. Incorporate serve patterns: Develop patterns of play that favour getting ahead in the first point. For example, if you’ve been hitting a heavy first serve, mix it up with a more controlled second serve to ensure that you’re winning that crucial first point.
4. Understand your opponent’s tendencies: Knowing your opponent’s tendencies can help you exploit weaknesses, especially when they start their service game at 0-15. Pay attention to how they respond under pressure and adjust your game plan accordingly.

THE TAKEAWAY

The first point in your service game may seem small, but it holds a disproportionate amount of power in determining the outcome of your game. Winning the first point gives you a psychological and tactical edge, setting the stage for the rest of the game. Conversely, starting from 0-15 puts pressure on you, making it harder to maintain momentum and confidence.

By focusing on starting your service games strong and developing strategies to control the first point, you can create a significant advantage. This often overlooked stat could be the key to holding more service games, improving your consistency, and ultimately becoming a more mentally resilient player.

Your game, your story—keep playing.