Do you think it’s a bad idea to use a serve and volley tactic after your second serve? Think again.
In a recent match at the Western & Southern Open final, Novak Djokovic demonstrated this strategy brilliantly. He served and volleyed six times behind his second serve and managed to win every single point. This led to an exciting victory of 5-7, 7-6(7), 7-6(4) over Carlos Alcaraz.
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About the Game
Initially, Djokovic struggled at the back of the court due to intense baseline exchanges and the scorching heat. However, he cleverly adjusted his approach. Facing heat exhaustion, Djokovic changed gears by using approach shots and serve and volley plays to take control of the match. He also served and volleyed twice behind his first serve, winning one of those points. Among all the strategies he employed, this one stood out as the most successful, winning him 88 percent of the time. On the other hand, Alcaraz served and volleyed 10 times and won eight of those points, all behind his first serve.
One of Djokovic’s strategic moves occurred when he served and volleyed behind his second serve at 5-5, 0/15 in the opening set. This was a clever response to Alcaraz’s deep return position. By hitting a well-placed second serve and quickly approaching the net, Djokovic caught Alcaraz off guard, resulting in a successful volley.
Djokovic’s slower and heavier second serve played a significant role in this strategy. It took longer for the returner to reach, allowing Djokovic to be in an advantageous position for his first volley near the baseline. Additionally, the kick serve bounced higher, making it difficult for opponents to counter with powerful shots.
Despite seeming unconventional, this strategy was a masterful move that only Djokovic seemed to understand fully. It was reminiscent of tactics used by Patrick Rafter.
In another instance, Djokovic served and volleyed behind his second serve at 5-5, 15/40. This time, it was a slower slice second serve. Alcaraz’s deep return led to Djokovic winning the point with a well-placed volley.
Djokovic’s Win
Djokovic’s gutsiest move came at 6/6 in the second set tie-break. After saving a match point, he served and volleyed behind his second serve. Despite suffering from heat exhaustion, Djokovic’s strategic thinking prevailed.
While he struggled with baseline points in the opening set, he managed to win 11 out of 14 net points in the second set, showing a remarkable turnaround.
Alcaraz’s weakness lay in his return of serve. He committed numerous return errors, struggling to find the right positioning against Djokovic’s serve. Djokovic’s strategy exploited this weakness effectively.
Using the serve and volley tactic behind his second serve not only saved Djokovic’s energy but also showcased his ability to outsmart opponents.
