2. How to Play Tennis 1. Eyes shut Once you've developed a sound service motion, it's important that you toss the ball into the same spot each and every time. You should be able to serve with your eyes closed, because the ball should be in the same spot every time. 2. Knock Knock The key to having a powerful serve is in creating a loop in your backswing and letting your racquet head drop behind you as you toss the ball. This lengthens the swing, and more length means increased power. Serving requires using the big muscles of the body. Ask Pete Sampras, Boris Becker, or Goran Ivanisevic where their power comes from and they'll say their legs, hips, and shoulders. 3. Same as it ever was When you're practicing your serve, go through the same pre-serve rituals you use during a match.