Reverse Tomahawk serve: how to read and return it

Described for a right-handed server; the tips on reading and returning speak to the receiver.

How to read it

Racket tip up, as on the tomahawk — but the racket travels from the server's right to their left.
The ball curves to your left, into a right-hander's backhand, like a pendulum serve.
Starting position alone does not tell you: watch which way the racket moves through the ball.
It is hard to put backspin on this serve, so expect sidespin with topspin or nothing.

How to return it

It kicks to your right off the racket: aim left of the target, toward the server's forehand side.
Close the racket a little and play over it — flick short ones, loop or drive long ones.
Pushing it with an open racket sends it high and wide to your right.

Common mistakes when serving it

Starting from a different position than the tomahawk, which removes the surprise.
Using the shoulder instead of the forearm and wrist, so the racket is slow.
Tossing too close to the body, leaving no room for the racket to pass in front.

More forehand serves

Learn to serve it

The step-by-step technique — grip, stance, toss, backswing, contact and finish — and a 3D demo you can turn and slow down are in Trainoro’s Service Drills, along with 12 ways to receive. To practise serving with a partner, see the serve and return drills.

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