To look or not to look at ball while serving

Richard Chang Asked 14 years ago

Keep up the great work on your site.

I notice many pros, during a serve, track the ball with their eyes during the toss as the ball reaches its max height, then maintain their gaze in the air while the ball falls and makes contact with the paddle. What is the purpose of this?

Alois Rosario Answered 14 years ago

Hi Richard,

Most players do this because it is difficult to track the ball all the way down to the bat.  I would suggest that you should aim to watch the ball all the way through.  You may then also find yourself doing the same as the Pros. 

I have toyed with both and find that when I am focused well, I tend to watch the ball for longer onto the bat.  It is just a difficult place to watch the ball when it so close to your body.