Hi everyone!

Here’s a solo drill to work on the combination of serve and first shot.

The goal of this exercise is to train the continuity between your serve and your first groundstroke, varying targets and building the point solidly right from the start.

How to run the drill:

Set up the ball machine on the opposite side from the server and program it to send deep, neutral balls alternately to the forehand and backhand sides, with a delay of about 3 seconds after the serve.

Get into your serving position and hit a first serve. As soon as you make contact, the machine sends a deep ball that you must play with control, either with a forehand or a backhand depending on the trajectory. Aim either for the deep cross-court or down the line, according to your tactical choice.

Repeat sets while varying your serve locations (wide, body, down the T) and changing the direction of your first shot to work on different match situations.

(Image created with the ETDM software – Download it here)

This drill improves the connection between your serve and your baseline game, develops the consistency of your first shot after the serve, and strengthens your ability to build the point from the very first strokes.

Pro tip: After your serve, recover your balance immediately so you’re ready to follow up with a precise, high-intensity first groundstroke.