Danielle Collins' Winning Tactic for Returning Second Serves

When it comes to returning second serves, Danielle Collins stands out as a powerhouse on the WTA tour. Her consistent patterns and tactical approach have allowed her to win a significant number of points, making her one of the top players in this aspect of the game. Curious about how you can incorporate her tactics into your own game? Let’s dive in.

Why Second Serve Returns Matter

For many players, the first serve is often a mix of power and precision, but some unique opportunites arise with the second serve. Currently, the top three second serve returners in the WTA have an impressive win rate of around 60% against their opponents' second serves. Danielle Collins, ranked around 15th in the world, plays at a top-three level in this area. So what sets her apart?

The Key Match: Collins vs. Świątek at the 2022 Australian Open

One of the best examples of Collins' tactical prowess on second serve returns was during her 2022 Australian Open semi-final match against Iga Świątek. In that match, Collins faced 21 second serves and won an astonishing 18 of them—an 85% win rate. What makes this performance even more impressive is that it was driven by smart tactics rather than just raw power or technical superiority.

Breaking Down Collins' Tactical Approach

Understanding the Service Box

Collins visualizes the service box with an imaginary line drawn down the middle, splitting it into two zones: inside and outside serves. This mental model helps her decide where to place her returns with precision.

1. Inside Serves: If the serve is closer to the midline, Collins considers it an "inside serve." Her tactic here is to use her backhand to hit the ball straight ahead. This approach has multiple benefits:

   • Earlier Contact: Aiming straight ahead requires early contact with the ball, which reduces the chances of hitting it late and missing the target.

   • Opponent's Backhand: By aiming straight, Collins often forces her opponent, typically a right-hander, to respond with their backhand, neutralizing the point or giving Collins an opportunity to attack.

   • Forcing Movement: This strategy also forces the opponent to move, making Collins’ shot more offensive.

2. Outside Serves: When the serve is further from the midline, Collins treats it as an "outside serve" and typically aims her return deep crosscourt. This strategy is effective because:

   • Longer Court: Hitting crosscourt gives her more court space to work with, increasing the chances of landing the ball in.

   • Aggression with Consistency: The crosscourt return allows Collins to be aggressive while maintaining consistency, a key balance in tennis.

The Ad Side vs. Deuce Side

Collins adapts her approach slightly depending on whether she’s on the ad side or the deuce side.

• Deuce Side: On the deuce side, Collins primarily focuses on inside-in returns with her backhand, aiming down the line. This tactic ensures that she keeps her opponent on the defensive, especially when they aim serves to her backhand.

• Ad Side: On the ad side, Collins aims deep crosscourt with her backhand when she faces wide serves. This approach allows her to utilize the longest line of the court and create a high-percentage shot, giving her the upper hand in the rally.

Applying Collins' Tactics to Your Game

The beauty of Collins’ tactics lies in their simplicity and effectiveness, making them accessible for recreational players as well. Here’s how you can incorporate her strategies:

1. Visualize the Service Box: Like Collins, start visualizing the service box split into inside and outside serves. This will help you decide where to place your returns more effectively.

2. Aim for Early Contact: Focus on making early contact with the ball, especially when aiming straight ahead. This reduces errors and increases the likelihood of putting your opponent on the defensive.

3. Play the Percentages: On outside serves, aim crosscourt to use the longest line of the court. This strategy not only keeps you consistent but also allows you to be aggressive without taking unnecessary risks.

4. Prioritize Consistency Over Winners: Especially for recreational players, consistency should be your primary goal. Following Collins’ pattern of hitting the first ball crosscourt from wherever it lands can keep you in the rally and increase your chances of winning the point.

Conclusion: Master the Art of the Return

Danielle Collins has shown that with the right tactics, you can dominate return games, even against the toughest opponents. By visualizing the service box, making early contact, and playing the percentages, you can take your second serve return game to the next level.

Want to learn more winning tennis tactics? Keep an eye on my blog here at TennisTactics.com, where I’ll be sharing insights from the pros, including a deep dive into my entire tactics library. And make sure to check out my Youtube channel for more winning plays.

As always, remember to hit your targets!