Kick Serve Meaning in Tennis

A kick serve is a serve that uses heavy topspin. The server brushes up the back of the ball. This spin makes the ball dip into the service box. After bouncing, the ball jumps high. It often rises above the opponent’s shoulder. Players use it to push the returner backward. The serve usually travels slower than a flat serve. However, it creates a tough bounce to handle. For example, on second serve, a player hits a high kicking serve. The ball jumps sharply to the returner’s backhand. The return floats short. Kick serves add safety and control under pressure.