Angle Serving

Definition

Angle serving places serves at extreme court angles to pull the returner far off the court, creating passing-lane gaps and forcing return errors. Wide-angle serves pull returners toward sidelines; narrow-angle serves pull them toward the center or T-area. Angle serves work best when returner isn't anticipating direction. However, if returner anticipates the angle, they have more time to attack. Angle serving requires excellent serve control and is risky in pressure situations—poor placement results in free points for opponent.

Origin: Offensive serve strategy; emphasizes placement over pace.