Master the Serve: Rules, Mechanics, and Strategy 101

The serve is the only shot in pickleball where you have total control. Yet, it is also the source of the most confusion regarding the rules. At Xephira, we believe a professional game starts with a legal, aggressive serve.

The Two Types of Legal Serves

As of the latest USA Pickleball rules, you have two options:

1. The Volley Serve

This is the traditional serve where you hit the ball out of the air without bouncing it. It has three strict requirements to avoid a fault:

   
• Arm Arc: Your arm must be moving in an upward arc.
   
• Paddle Position: The highest point of the paddle head must not be above the highest part of your wrist (the "wrist hinge" rule).
   
• Contact Point: Contact must be made below your waist (navel level).

2. The Drop Serve

Introduced recently, this serve allows you to drop the ball and hit it after the bounce. The key rule? Gravity only. You cannot throw the ball down or up; you must simply let it fall from your hand. The restrictions on wrist hinge and upward arc do not apply here, making it great for beginners or those trying to impart heavy slice.

Strategy: Serve Deep

Regardless of your style, your goal is depth. A short serve invites your opponent to the Kitchen line immediately. Aim for the back 3 feet of the court to pin your opponents back, giving you the advantage on the third shot.