Receiver Meaning in Tennis

The receiver is the player who returns the serve. This player stands on the opposite side of the net. The receiver prepares before the server hits the ball. Quick reactions are essential in this role. The serve often travels at high speed. Therefore the receiver must read direction early. Good receivers anticipate patterns and placement. They adjust their position between points. For example a receiver may step back against a powerful server. This gives more time to react. A strong return can shift control immediately. The receiver aims to neutralize the serve advantage. Success in this role builds pressure on the server.