Serve dynamics and tactical trends in elite U-14 girls’ tennis: A case study from the Les Petits as tournament

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the tactical patterns employed by elite U-14 female tennis players during the 2023 Les Petits As tournament, as a case study, focusing on singles matches from the quarterfinals to the final. Using a structured observational methodology and the OBSTENNIS-JUNIOR-S23 instrument, 837 points were coded and analyzed through LINCE PLUS and THEME 6 Edu software. Descriptive results revealed a predominant use of first serves (70%) and a preference for targeting the body zone (43.2%). Short rallies (0–4 shots) were most frequent (38%). Overall, 57% of points ended with a final shot from behind the baseline, and 56% concluded with a forehand. Unforced errors were the leading cause of point conclusions, particularly with balls going beyond the baseline (24.7%). Inferential analyses showed no significant differences between deuce and advantage sides in serve patterns or outcomes. These results suggest that, at U-14, the serve primarily functions as a rally starter rather than a direct-scoring weapon, although placement and early rally control remain influential in shaping point outcomes. Limitations include the narrow sample scope and lack of longitudinal data; future research should expand to diverse contexts and incorporate developmental trajectories. The findings provide practical implications for training while contributing to a more gender-inclusive understanding of tactical development in junior tennis. Practical implications include prioritizing serve placement variability and early point control (serve+1) under competition-like constraints in U-14 girls’ training.