First Service

First service is the first of the two services of a tennis ball a player is allowed. Generally the server will try a more difficult service on the first attempt.

The service starts a point in tennis. When serving for the first time, stand behind the baseline between the center mark and the right sideline. The ball is hit diagonally into the service box on the other side of the net, on the opposite side of the center mark from which the player is serving. And remember, you’re not allowed to step on or over the baseline before hitting the ball.

On the first point of a game, the first service must go over the net and into the receiver’s right (deuce) service court. If your first service doesn’t go into the correct box, it’s called a “fault”. If you miss your second service, however, it’s called a “double fault” and your opponent wins that point.

You get two chances to get your serve in, so you can take more risks with your first attempt. The first service is the time to have a go at playing to your opponent’s weaker side, even if you are not so skilled at that direction. Alternatively, you can try to win the point in one shot with a service that is more powerful and carries more slice. However, fault on your second service and your opponent is given a point. Because of this, second serves are typically more cautious.