Mastering the art of returning serves at Wimbledon

THE ALL ENGLAND CLUB, LONDON — Ben Shelton, known for his powerful serve, showcased his improved returns in a recent match against Lorenzo Sonego at Wimbledon. Shelton's strategic returns helped him secure a spot in the quarterfinals, emphasizing the importance of a strong return game in tennis.

At Wimbledon, the ability to return serves effectively is crucial for success. Players like Taylor Fritz and Iga Świątek have demonstrated the significance of patient and strategic returns on grass courts. By focusing on solid and deep returns, players can gain an advantage over big servers and control the pace of the game.

Despite the allure of powerful serves and flashy winners, consistent and strategic returns play a key role in winning matches. Players like Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic have excelled in returning serves, showcasing the impact of a strong return game on overall performance.

Emma Navarro's success at Wimbledon highlights the effectiveness of strategic returns, even for players with less experience on grass courts. By staying strong and stable on returns, players can capitalize on their opponents' serves and gain a competitive edge.

Ben Shelton's improved return game at Wimbledon this year has been a standout success story, underscoring the importance of a well-rounded skill set in tennis. Shelton's ability to return effectively has elevated his performance and put pressure on his opponents' serves, leading to his impressive results at the tournament.

According to the source: The New York Times.