Yes, the underarm serve is perfectly legal in tennis, permissible in all levels of competition.
Legality and Rules of the Underarm Serve
Contrary to a common misconception that it might be against the rules or unsportsmanlike, the underarm serve is fully allowed under the official rules of tennis. Players can legally employ this serve during matches. A key aspect of its legality is that there is no requirement for the ball to bounce before it is struck, similar to a traditional overhead serve. The server simply needs to hit the ball before it bounces on their side of the court, delivering it into the service box.
Strategic Considerations and Usage
Despite its legality, the underarm serve is rarely seen in professional or high-level amateur play. This infrequent use stems primarily from its inherent disadvantages compared to the more common overhead serve:
- Less Power and Precision: The underarm motion generally generates significantly less power and speed, making it easier for the opponent to return forcefully. It also typically offers less control for precise placement.
- Effectiveness: It is considered much less effective than the classic serve, which allows players to hit with greater force, spin, and accuracy, making it a powerful offensive weapon.
However, its rarity is precisely what can make it a strategic, albeit surprising, option in certain situations. Players might use an underarm serve to:
- Surprise the Opponent: An unexpected underarm serve can catch an opponent off guard, especially if they are positioned far behind the baseline in anticipation of a fast, deep overhead serve.
- Disrupt Rhythm: It can break an opponent's rhythm or concentration, forcing them to adjust quickly to a different pace and trajectory.
- Capitalize on Aggressive Return Positions: If an opponent is taking an extremely aggressive return position inside the baseline, an underarm serve can be an effective way to deliver the ball at their feet, forcing an awkward return.
Comparing Underarm vs. Overhead Serve
| Feature | Classic Overhead Serve | Underarm Serve |
|---|---|---|
| Legality | Legal and Standard | Legal, but rarely used |
| Power/Speed | High; primary weapon for aces and service winners | Low; typically easier for opponents to return |
| Precision | High potential for varied spins and placements | Lower potential for intricate spin or sharp angles |
| Usage | Dominant serve type across all levels | Strategic surprise; used sparingly |
| Ball Bounce | Ball is tossed up and hit before it bounces | Ball is typically hit from below the waist; no need for it to bounce before hit |
| Strategic Aim | Offensive weapon; gain immediate advantage | Disruptive tactic; exploit opponent's positioning |
While the underarm serve is a perfectly valid shot within the rules of tennis, its limited effectiveness compared to the standard overhead serve means it remains a niche, surprise tactic rather than a primary serving option.
