Exploring the Legality and Popularity of the Underhand Serve in Tennis

Tennis is a game deeply rooted in tradition and formality, yet it continuously evolves with modern players pushing the boundaries of conventional rules. One such innovation is the underhand serve, a move that, while unconventional, is perfectly legal under the International Tennis Federation's (ITF) rules. This article delves into the legality, strategic value, and social considerations surrounding the underhand serve.

Legal Status of the Underhand Serve

According to the Friend at Court and the ITF Rules of Tennis, Section 16, the serve does not dictate whether the ball is hit upwards or downwards, as long as it is struck with the racquet and lands in the correct service box. This rule was first highlighted in the 1989 French Open when 17-year-old Michael Chang stunned the world by defeating then-World No.1 Ivan Lendl using an underhand serve. Although this serve has been around for decades, its recent resurgence in popularity thanks to players like Nick Kyrgios and Alexander Bublik has brought it back into the spotlight.

Strategic Value and Popularity

The underhand serve, while not as powerful as the traditional overhand serve, offers a strategic advantage. It can be used to disrupt an opponent's rhythm and catch them off guard, especially when they are positioned well back at the baseline. Kyrgios, often referred to as the "Pistol Packin' Pecking Machine," has successfully used this serve to great effect, winning 77% of his first serve points and averaging around 15 aces per match. However, it’s not just about power; the underhand serve can also be used as a mercy serve, sparing the player and their opponent from the immense physical strain of a heavy, powerful serve.

Controversies and Criticisms

While some players defend the underhand serve as purely a strategic move and not a sign of disrespect, others find it impolite and unsportsmanlike. Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal, among others, have expressed their disapproval, seeing it as a lack of respect towards the game and their opponents. Daniil Medvedev, however, provided a different perspective when he used the underhand serve against Alexander Zverev in the London ATP Final, emphasizing its strategic value over any form of disrespect.

The Future of the Underhand Serve

As tennis continues to evolve, the use of the underhand serve will likely remain a topic of debate and discussion. Only time will tell whether this serve is widely accepted as a fair and respectful part of the game or whether it will remain a controversial technique. Regardless, its inclusion in the sport serves as a reminder of tennis's adaptability and innovation, keeping the game exciting and ever-changing.