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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/tennis-must-let-serve-bounce

Can the receiver volley the serve, hitting it before it bounces?

No. The serve must bounce first, or the receiver loses the point.

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  1. Yes, any time
  2. Only in doubles
  3. No, the receiver loses the point ✔

Why: The receiver must let the serve bounce. Returning it before it bounces loses the point. After the serve, players may volley the ball in the air during the rally.

Huh, didn't know that: Even a serve that is clearly going long must not be caught or hit in the air by the receiver.

The dad joke
Why can't you volley a serve? Even tennis balls deserve one bounce of fame.
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References

Answer: No, the receiver loses the point. The receiver must let the serve bounce. Returning it before it bounces loses the point. After the serve, players may volley the ball in the air during the rally.

  1. ITF 2026 Rules of Tennis, Rule 24 Player Loses Point www.itftennis.com/media/7221/2026-rules-of-tennis-english.pdf
    The receiver returns the service before it bounces
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Sports & FitnessThe ball bounces twice on your side before you hit it. What happens?Sports & FitnessCan you reach over the net and hit the ball before it crosses to your side?Sports & FitnessYou hit the ball on your side, and your racket follows through over the net. Is that OK?

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