The serve +1—the shot after the serve—is one of the most critical patterns for dictating points.

For junior players looking to gain a competitive edge - mastering serve +1 strategies can be the difference between dominating matches or being on the defensive. By training specific serve +1 patterns - players can learn to control the court, exploit their strengths, and put pressure on their opponents from the first ball.

What is the Serve +1?

The serve +1 refers to the first shot played after a serve, often a groundstroke or volley. The goal is to capitalize on the advantage created by a well-placed serve, taking control of the rally or winning the point outright.

Key principles:

Serve placement: Sets up the +1 shot.
+1 shot: Executes the aggressive follow-up, targeting weaknesses or open court space.

Top Serve +1 Patterns for Junior Players

1. Serve Wide + Forehand to the Open Court

This is a classic and highly effective pattern for both first and second serves.

Serve Placement: A wide serve to pull the opponent off the court (deuce or ad side).
+1 Shot: Attack the open court with a forehand. If the opponent reaches it, they are likely stretched, setting up an easy put-away.
Why It Works: The wide serve creates space, forcing the opponent to hit a weak return, and the forehand allows juniors to use their strongest groundstroke.

Practice Focus:

Serve accuracy to the wide target.
Footwork drills to prepare for hitting an aggressive forehand.

2. Serve T + Backhand Cross-Court

This pattern is ideal for players with solid backhands.

Serve Placement: A serve down the T on either side, jamming the opponent or forcing a defensive return.
+1 Shot: Backhand cross-court to keep the opponent on the move and maintain control of the point.
Why It Works: The T serve limits return angles, and the cross-court backhand plays into the largest part of the court, reducing unforced errors.

Practice Focus:

Serve placement drills targeting the T.
Backhand drills emphasizing depth and consistency cross-court.

3. Body Serve + Forehand Inside-In

This aggressive pattern is excellent for keeping opponents on the defensive.

Serve Placement: A body serve to jam the opponent and elicit a weak return.
+1 Shot: Forehand inside-in (down the line) to attack early and put the opponent on the run.
Why It Works: The body serve limits the opponent's ability to return aggressively, and the forehand inside-in applies immediate pressure.

Practice Focus:

Serve drills focusing on jamming placement.
Forehand inside-in accuracy and pace.

4. Slice Serve Wide + Volley Approach

For players comfortable at the net, this serve +1 pattern is a game-changer.

Serve Placement: A slice serve wide to pull the opponent off the court.
+1 Shot: Follow the serve with an approach volley to finish the point early.
Why It Works: The slice serve pulls the opponent off balance, creating an opportunity for an aggressive volley finish.

Practice Focus:

Slice serve placement and spin generation.
Volley drills emphasizing control and placement.

5. Kick Serve to the Backhand + Forehand Inside-Out

This pattern is particularly effective on second serves.

Serve Placement: A high-bouncing kick serve to the opponent’s weaker backhand side.
+1 Shot: Forehand inside-out to their backhand, further exploiting the weaker side.
Why It Works: The kick serve neutralizes the opponent's return power, and the forehand inside-out forces them into uncomfortable positions.

Practice Focus:

Kick serve spin and placement.
Forehand inside-out power and accuracy.

Training Tips for Serve +1 Mastery

Repetition and Accuracy: Practice serving to specific targets and hitting the +1 shot under pressure. Consistency is key.
Footwork: Quick recovery after the serve is essential for positioning to hit the +1 shot effectively.
Game Simulation: Practice serve +1 patterns in live point play to replicate match scenarios.
Video Analysis: Record practice sessions to identify strengths and areas for improvement in serve placement and +1 execution.

The Competitive Edge

Mastering serve +1 patterns gives junior players an immediate advantage by allowing them to dictate points early and capitalize on their strengths. By incorporating these patterns into regular practice and match play, junior athletes can develop a proactive mindset, improve shot selection, and gain the upper hand against their competition.