In mixed doubles, a return that looks like a winner can be less useful than one that makes the next shot awkward. The server’s partner is already waiting at the net, your own partner has to cover the space you leave, and the return order is fixed for the set. A good plan accounts for all three—not just the ball coming at you.
Know the rules before choosing a return
Mixed doubles uses the standard doubles court and service rules. The receiver must let the serve bounce in the correct service box before returning it; the receiver’s partner cannot take that ball instead. There is no rule requiring a woman to receive a man’s serve, or a player to face an opponent of the same gender. Teams choose who receives from each side at the start of a set, then keep that receiving order for the set. They can choose a different order at the start of the next set.
That choice matters tactically. A player with a stronger backhand return might take the deuce court, for example, while the player with a reliable forehand return takes the ad court. Agree on the order before the set begins, and make sure both players know who is taking serves from each side. If you receive out of order by mistake, don’t try to improvise a switch mid-game; tell the official if there is one and follow the rules for correcting the error.
Your partner and the server’s partner may stand anywhere on their respective sides of the court, as long as they do not hinder play. That gives the receiving team room to adjust its formation—but the designated receiver still has to play the serve.
Start with a clear return plan
Before the match, decide on a default target and a signal for changing it. A simple plan might be: return deep crosscourt unless the net player crowds the middle, in which case lob over them. Clear calls such as “middle,” “switch,” or “lob” help prevent both partners from chasing the same ball.
Watch the first few service games for clues. Does the server favor the body on big points? Is the second serve short and easy to attack? Does the net player move early to poach? Use that information to adjust your starting position and target. Focus on what an opponent actually does, not on assumptions about their gender or playing style.
Choose the return that creates the next problem
| Return | When it helps | Main risk |
|---|---|---|
| Deep crosscourt | A dependable default; gives you time and makes the server hit from farther back. | A predictable angle can invite the net player to poach. |
| Low at the net player’s feet | Useful when the opposing player is closing in or attacking the middle. | A floating ball can sit up for an easy volley. |
| Down the line | Can punish a net player who leans too far toward the center. | The net is higher near the post, and the sideline leaves less margin. |
| High lob | Effective against a net player standing close or moving forward early. | A short lob may be smashed, so height and depth matter. |
| Return through the middle | Can create hesitation about which opponent should play the next ball. | Both opponents may cover it comfortably if they communicate well. |
Make crosscourt your steady option
A deep crosscourt return usually gives the ball a longer path over the lower part of the net and more room before the sideline. It can push the server away from the net and give your partner time to settle into position. Aim deep rather than merely wide: a short crosscourt return may let the net player cut it off.
Crosscourt is a foundation, not a rule. If the net player is already leaning into that lane, change the picture with a low ball at their feet, a lob, or an occasional line return. Changing direction works best when you are balanced; reaching late for a low serve is a poor moment to attempt a precision shot.
Use the net player as a target—but keep the ball low
When the opposing net player is active, a dipping return at their feet can take away the easy volley. The goal is not necessarily to hit them; it is to make them volley upward from below net height. Your partner can then move forward and look for the next ball.
A return straight at the net player’s body can also jam them, particularly if they are moving across. But a comfortable ball at chest height is exactly what a strong volleyer wants. If you choose the body, hit with enough pace to limit their reaction time or aim low enough to force a difficult contact.
Save the down-the-line return for the right moment
The line return can expose a net player who is poaching aggressively, but it asks for more accuracy. The net is higher near the post, and a small miss can send the ball wide. Use it when you see the net player commit early, or when you have time to set your feet—not simply because you want to surprise them.
A useful variation is a firm return through the middle. It may not win the point outright, but it can make the opponents hesitate over responsibility. Call your intention with your partner: if you both assume the other will cover the middle, the tactic has worked for the other team.
Position for the serve you are facing
Stand close enough to take time away from a slower serve, but far enough back to handle a fast one. If a server repeatedly targets your body, give yourself a little more room to turn and make a compact swing. Against a wide serve, shift toward that side without leaving the opposite court completely open. Move back a step for a particularly strong server; move forward against a soft second serve if you can still react safely.
Your partner’s position should support the return, not distract from it. Many teams begin near the service line or closer to the net, ready to cover a volley. Against a powerful server or a returner who struggles to keep the ball in play, the partner may start farther back. You can also vary the formation to discourage a predictable poach, but agree on who covers the middle and the lob first.
Build a point, not just a return
Think about where your partner will be after you hit. A deep return may let them move forward behind you; a wide return may leave a larger opening down the middle. If you send the ball crosscourt, your partner should be prepared for the opponents to redirect it. If you go down the line, be ready for the reply to come back toward the center.
On a second serve, you may be able to step in and attack, but “attack” does not have to mean going for a winner. A firm, low return at the server’s feet can be more valuable than a risky swing for the line. At 30–30 or break point, favor a return you trust under pressure. A reliable ball that starts a neutral rally gives your team a chance; a rushed winner attempt gives the point away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do mixed doubles players have to receive against an opponent of the same gender?
No. The rules do not require same-gender matchups. Each team chooses its receiving order at the start of a set and keeps it for that set.
Can the receiver’s partner return the serve?
No. The designated receiver must let the serve bounce and play it. The receiver’s partner may stand elsewhere on the team’s side, but cannot take the serve instead.
What is the safest return against a net player who keeps poaching?
Start with a deep crosscourt return, then mix in a low ball at the poacher’s feet or a well-judged lob. Avoid repeatedly hitting a comfortable ball into the lane they are already covering.
Should I always return down the line to avoid the net player?
No. The line shot has less margin and can be risky under pressure. Use it when the net player commits early or you have time and balance; otherwise, a deep crosscourt return is often the sounder choice.
Final Thoughts
Strong mixed doubles returning comes from combining a dependable default with a willingness to adjust. Know your team’s receiving order, read the net player, and choose a target that gives your partner a useful next position. Deep crosscourt is a solid starting point; low returns, line changes, and lobs are tools for disrupting opponents who get comfortable. The best return is the one your pair has agreed to play—and can follow up together.
