Starting Strong: How to Gain the Upper Hand as the Serving Team
Starting Strong: How to Gain the Upper Hand as the Serving Team
In pickleball, it's generally accepted that the returning team holds the early advantage. But why is that the case, and more importantly, what can you do about it?
Let’s examine the reasons behind this dynamic and explore how the serving team can gain momentum right from the start of the point.
Why the Returning Team Has the Edge
Several factors give the returning team a built-in advantage:
The two-bounce rule forces the serving team to let the return bounce, while the returning team can move forward and take early control of the NVZ (Non-Volley Zone).
At the pro level, data shows that the returning team wins about 55% of rallies across Men's, Women's, and Mixed doubles.
In non-professional play, deep returns are even more impactful. One analysis of nearly 2,000 rallies from two major indoor tournaments (with over 150 teams, DUPR ratings from 2.5 to 5.0+) showed that deep returns significantly increased win rates for the returning team — especially for players rated above DUPR 3.5.
In short, deep and well-placed returns often put the serving team on defense early.
How the Serving Team Can Flip the Script
To gain the upper hand, the serving team needs to shift from simply starting the point to strategically applying pressure. This requires two things:
Tactical decisions to neutralize or attack the returning team
The technical and mental skills to execute under pressure
If you can make your opponent’s return shallower or weaker, your chances of taking control of the rally increase dramatically.
How to Build Pressure as the Serving Team
The key to gaining control is simple: apply pressure. You want to force errors, disrupt your opponents’ rhythm, and create opportunities to finish or take command of the rally before the 5th shot.
But what does pressure actually look like, and how can you create it?
Serving Tactics That Apply Pressure
Your first opportunity to apply pressure comes with the serve. Here are five effective serving tactics:
Serve deep – Push the returner back to limit their options
Serve fast and deep – Speed up the ball to take away time
Serve to a weakness – Aim for known weaker strokes (like a backhand)
Serve to open space – Move the returner or pull them wide
Change rhythm – Use spin, pace, or height variations to throw off timing
A well-placed, unpredictable serve can immediately disrupt your opponent’s plan.
Third Shot Tactics: Setting the Tone Early
After the serve, the third shot offers a second chance to shape the rally. Here are a few ways to keep the pressure on:
Hit low – Use drops, drives, or hybrids to force upward contact
Rush the opponent – Play the ball early to limit their reaction time
Target smart locations – Hit to the open court, the weaker player, or between them
Choose based on context – Decide between a drop or drive based on the return you receive
The goal is to set up a weak 4th shot that you can attack, or at least neutralize the opponent’s position.
Fifth Shot Tactics: Capitalize or Reset
If your 3rd shot produces a high or weak ball, the 5th shot is your chance to finish or take control.
Play it early – Step in and volley to reduce their reaction time
Hit with pace – Speed forces rushed or defensive replies
Place your shot smartly – Find the open court or target the weaker player
If the 4th shot is strong, your 5th may need to focus more on neutralizing and resetting the point instead of going on offense. Either way, your ability to recognize the quality of the ball and respond with the right shot is crucial.
Decision-Making and Anticipation: The Hidden Edge
High-level serving teams don’t just follow a script. They read the play, adapt, and anticipate what’s coming next.
Here’s how you can sharpen that edge:
1. Smart Shot Selection
Your 3rd shot should match the quality of the return, your own strengths, and your opponent’s weaknesses. For example:
A high, short return might call for a fast drive
A deep, heavy return might require a controlled drop
A return to your backhand may demand better preparation or a safer target
Choosing the wrong shot in the wrong moment can flip the rally in your opponent’s favor.
2. Better Anticipation
Once the 3rd shot is sent, you need to be ready for the most likely reply. This means reading your opponent’s body, positioning, and shot tendencies to anticipate where to be and what to expect.
This is one of the hardest skills for many players, especially when preparing for the 5th shot. Poor positioning can mean:
Missing chances to attack
Getting caught flat-footed against a fast 4th shot
Giving up momentum unnecessarily
The players who are ready for the 4th ball before it comes are often the ones who win the rally.
Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Not Just Strong
Yes, the returner has the early edge, but that doesn’t mean the serving team has to start every point from behind.
By combining smart serving, purposeful 3rd and 5th shots, and better anticipation, you can shift control of the rally before your opponents even reach the kitchen line.
To improve:
Practice serve depth, variety, and precision
Drill common 3rd and 5th shot patterns under pressure
Watch match footage to improve your decision-making and anticipation
Don’t just play the point, plan it. When you do, you’ll find yourself starting strong far more often.
Additional related resources to help you improve your serving team tactics and performance:
Check out these Klyng on the Court podcast videos on “Cracking the Code as the Serving Team” and what it means to have a “Winning Mentality”.