During a mixed doubles match at the US Open, Sara Errani made a surprising choice that caught attention far beyond the court. Facing match point, she opted for an underarm serve—a move often seen as unconventional in professional tennis. Her decision wasn’t random or theatrical; it was rooted in strategy and self-awareness.
The Reason Behind the Underarm Serve
Errani explained her choice with striking honesty: “You want to know the truth? Because I feel if I serve normal, I do double-fault.” Her words reveal a vulnerability that many athletes experience but rarely voice. Rather than risk a costly error, she chose a serve that gave her more control and reduced the chance of a fault.
The Psychology of the Unexpected
The underarm serve, while less powerful, can be surprisingly effective. “Sometimes also is not easy to return from underarm. Is getting low,” Errani noted. The ball’s trajectory and speed can disrupt a returner’s rhythm, especially when they’re expecting a traditional serve. In high-pressure moments, unpredictability can be a powerful weapon.
Nerves on Both Sides of the Net
Errani added, “Some people sometimes is getting nervous.” Her observation touches on the mental game of tennis. An unexpected serve can rattle opponents, especially when the stakes are high. By shifting the dynamic, she not only protected her own serve but introduced doubt into her opponents’ minds.
Redefining Strategy in Modern Tennis
Errani’s move challenges conventional thinking about what’s acceptable or effective in elite tennis. It’s a reminder that success isn’t always about power or tradition—it can come from knowing your limits, reading the moment, and daring to do something different. Her underarm serve wasn’t just a technical choice; it was a reflection of adaptability under pressure.