Why Women Should Prioritize Depth Over Speed In Serving
Many women focus on serving fast or hard in pickleball. Sometimes we feel inspired—or pressured—by men who love to overpower opponents with a quick, heavy serve. But when it comes to building a strong serving game, depth is far more valuable than speed.
A deep serve pins your opponent behind the baseline, immediately putting you in control of the rally. When a returner is forced to hit from several feet back, it becomes much harder for them to reach the kitchen line quickly. That delay gives you time to move up and establish your own position—often setting up an easier third shot.
Another benefit of a deep, well-placed serve is that it keeps your opponent in mid-court longer. From that position, they’re vulnerable, and you can drive the next ball at their feet instead of needing to hit a risky third-shot drop. It’s a smart tactical setup, not just a serve.
In fact, sometimes hard serves are easier to return. You just have to stick out your paddle and block. But a high, deep serve can be daunting—especially for players unsure of where to make contact or how to generate their own momentum. Things can unravel for the returner quickly.
Depth also brings consistency. Loftier, methodical serves clear the net more easily and stay in bounds more often. A fast, flat serve may look aggressive, but it’s far more likely to clip the tape or sail long—handing away free points.
Finally, a deep serve can disrupt rhythm. Many women rely on timing and footwork to flow into the court after their return. When they’re pushed back, that rhythm breaks—they rush, lose balance, or pop up a weak return, all of which you can capitalize on.
Bottom line: A well-placed deep serve doesn’t just start the point—it shapes the point in your favor. Focus on accuracy and placement, not just power, and you’ll find yourself in control far more often than not.
About the Author: Gina Cilento is a top 10 Senior Pro and multi-APP medalist who splits her time between competing and coaching. She’s the co-founder of The Pickleball Lab, a pod player for the Denver Iconics in the National Pickleball League, and co-host of Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil. Off the court, Gina shares her passion through her apparel line, The Pick, and her work with Empower Pickleball.
