How high should I toss the ball when serving?

A little higher than the point where you will hit it at full reach, so you contact it just as it starts to fall or near its peak. Very high tosses are harder to time, especially in the wind.

Can I re-toss if my toss is bad?

Yes. If you let the ball drop without swinging at it, or catch it, you simply toss again. It is only a fault if you swing and miss or hit it out.

Where should the toss go for a kick serve?

More above your head and slightly behind where you would toss a flat serve, which lets you swing up and across the ball to create topspin.

How to Toss the Ball on Your Serve

4 video lessons

A consistent toss is the quickest fix for an inconsistent serve.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Most serve problems start with the toss. Hold the ball lightly in your fingertips, keep your tossing arm straight and lift it from the shoulder, releasing the ball around head height or a little higher. The wrist and elbow should stay quiet so the ball goes straight up without spinning much.

For a basic first serve, the ball should go slightly in front of you and toward your hitting side, and peak a little above where your racquet makes contact. If you let a good toss drop, it should land just in front of your front foot.

Key tips

Release the ball later and higher rather than flicking it from your waist.
Keep your tossing arm up a moment after release; it helps keep your head and shoulders up.
Practice tossing without hitting, catching the ball or letting it land on a target.
If the toss is bad, catch it and start again: there is no penalty.

FAQ

How high should I toss the ball when serving?: A little higher than the point where you will hit it at full reach, so you contact it just as it starts to fall or near its peak. Very high tosses are harder to time, especially in the wind.
Can I re-toss if my toss is bad?: Yes. If you let the ball drop without swinging at it, or catch it, you simply toss again. It is only a fault if you swing and miss or hit it out.
Where should the toss go for a kick serve?: More above your head and slightly behind where you would toss a flat serve, which lets you swing up and across the ball to create topspin.