How fast was Federer’s serve?

His first serve typically sat around 115 to 125 mph, with a top speed above 140 mph. Placement and disguise, not speed, made it so effective.

Does Federer use a platform or pinpoint stance?

A platform stance: his feet stay roughly where they started instead of bringing the back foot up to the front.

Roger Federer Serve Technique, in Slow Motion

6 video lessons

A smooth, hard-to-read serve you can study frame by frame.

Quick answer & tips ▾

Federer's serve is not the fastest on tour, but it is one of the most effective because it is so hard to read. He tosses to nearly the same spot for flat, slice and kick serves, so the returner gets no early clue.

His motion is smooth and unhurried: a platform stance, a relaxed trophy position and a loose arm that lets the racquet drop behind the back before swinging up to the ball. Accuracy and placement matter more to him than raw speed.

Key tips

Use one toss location for all your serves.
Keep the motion smooth; rhythm beats muscle.
Stay loose so the racquet can drop behind your back.
Pick a target before every serve.

FAQ

How fast was Federer’s serve?: His first serve typically sat around 115 to 125 mph, with a top speed above 140 mph. Placement and disguise, not speed, made it so effective.
Does Federer use a platform or pinpoint stance?: A platform stance: his feet stay roughly where they started instead of bringing the back foot up to the front.