The tactical evolution of the serve: A sequence analysis in elite junior tennis players

The present study analyzes the serve+1 patterns of elite male U12 and U14 tennis players to compare tactical patterns and developmental differences between these age categories. Significant differences were identified in serve direction, third-shot execution, and impact zones between both age groups. U14 players demonstrated a more structured approach, using their serve to control the rally and position themselves advantageously, with a greater proportion of serves directed wide compared to U12 players. Conversely, U12 players exhibited greater variability and a higher frequency of return errors. Furthermore, U12 players executed their third shot from deeper zones, reflecting a more reactive positioning that limited rally control compared to U14 players. Additionally, U14 players showed a higher percentage of shots played from inside the court, allowing them to dictate play from an early stage in the rally. The findings emphasize the importance of serve placement and proactive strategies in junior development. Training interventions should prioritize refining serve+1 sequences, encouraging offensive positioning, and minimizing the returner's control at the start of the rally. Future research should consider the influence of conditional, psychological and biomechanical factors on serve effectiveness and tactical decisions, as well as expand the analysis to female players, different age categories, and various playing surfaces to develop more comprehensive developmental pathways.