What are the rules for serving in tennis?
B · Beginner · Serving · 5 of 8The server stands behind the baseline, between the centre mark and the sideline, releases the ball by hand and hits it before it bounces. The serve must cross the net and land in the service box diagonally opposite. The server has two tries at each point.
How it works
- Before starting, the server stands still with both feet behind the baseline, between the imaginary extensions of the centre mark and the sideline.
- The ball is released by hand in any direction and hit with the racket before it touches the ground.
- The serve is complete when the racket hits or misses the ball.
- It must pass over the net and land in the diagonally opposite service box. The lines of the box are in.
- First point of every game: from the right half. Then alternate halves each point.
- The server must not serve until the receiver is ready. The receiver must play to the server's reasonable pace.
- The receiver may stand anywhere on their own side, inside or outside the lines.
Tricky cases
Is an underarm serve legal?
Yes. The rules say only that the ball is released by hand and hit before it bounces. They do not say how.
Can the server catch a bad ball toss?
Yes. A player who tosses the ball and decides not to hit it may catch it or let it bounce. It is not a fault.
Can the server jump?
Yes. One or both feet may be off the ground. The feet must not touch the baseline or the court before the ball is hit.
Can the receiver volley the serve?
No. A receiver who returns the serve before it bounces loses the point.
Why the rule exists
The serve starts every point, so the rules fix where it is hit from and where it must land, to give the receiver a fair chance to return it.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| ITF rules | As above | L16, 17, 21 |
| Players able to use only one arm | May use the racket to release the ball | L16 |
| Wheelchair tennis | The server may take one push before striking the ball | Wheelchair rules c |
From the rule book
ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rules 8, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 24. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: ITF Rules of Tennis (PDF).