Pegula, Keys, and Brady Tackle the Underarm Serve Debate

A Tactical Evolution in the Player's Box

In the high-stakes theater of the Madrid Open, where luminaries like Coco Gauff, Linda Noskova, and Mirra Andreeva take the stage, a quieter, shiftier drama is unfolding off the court. On the recent episode of The Player’s Box Podcast, WTA stalwarts Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys, and Jennifer Brady convened to dissect the legitimacy of the underarm serve. Far from viewing it as a slight against tennis decorum, the trio offered a refreshingly pragmatic stance, advocating for its continued place in the modern game’s tactical arsenal.

The conversation highlights a broader trend: players are increasingly viewing the underarm serve not as a gimmick, but as a legitimate tool to manipulate WTA rankings-caliber opponents who linger too far behind the baseline. By pulling the receiver out of their comfort zone, the serve functions as an equalizer, forcing opponents to respect the short ball even when they are positioned for a deep, heavy groundstroke.

The Rules of Engagement and On-Court Reality

The defense of the underarm maneuver isn't limited to the women’s tour. Even the legendary Andy Roddick has thrown his weight behind the tactic, reminding purists that the rules of tennis provide no mandate against the surprise delivery. Roddick’s endorsement carries significant gravity, reinforcing the notion that if a move is within the laws of the game, it should be treated as a strategic asset rather than a breach of sportsmanship.

Real-world application was recently underscored when Borges opted for the underarm serve against Etcheverry in the wake of a rain delay—a moment that exemplifies the serve’s utility as a momentum shifter. When conditions change or rhythm is broken, a sudden change of pace can be the difference between holding serve and staring down a break point. As the conversation on the professional tour grows louder, it is clear that the underarm serve is shedding its controversial skin to become a respected weapon in the modern player's repertoire.