On this particular serve, Serena is using a Semi-Continental grip, between Continental and Eastern forehand, which is somewhat unusual. The closer to an Eastern forehand grip you get on a serve, the less spin you're likely to produce. Serena probably hit this serve with less spin than usual, but still with a significant amount of topspin and sidespin. Contrary to popular misconception, the world's best servers almost never hit a serve flat.
Serena Williams Photos: Picture Gallery of Strokes
By Jeff Cooper, About.com
Serena's big knee bend prepares her for the upward leg thrust that will add considerable power to her serve. Reaching up after the released ball helps to make the line of her toss straight and to keep her front shoulder and head up while loading up for the swing.
Prev
- Serena Williams Photo #1: Loading Up for a Backhand
- Serena Williams Photo #2: Power Backhand Point of Contact
- Serena Williams Photo #3: Backhand Follow-Through
- Serena Williams Photo #4: Slice Backhand
- Serena Williams Photo #5: Ball Toss Release
- Serena Williams Photo #6: Knee Bend for Serve
- Serena Williams Photo #7: Racquet About to Whip on Serve
- Serena Williams Photo #8: Point of Contact on Serve
- Serena Williams Photo #9: Semi-Open, Semi-Western Forehand
- Serena Williams Photo #10: Stretch Backhand Volley
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