Doubles Service Position

Hi Alois,

just watched the show 98 and I have an additional question:

Today I played some doubles in my club and one player got REALLY angry at me because I was standing in the middle of the table while I was serving. He said that my playing partner (standing exactly behind me) can not see well enough, so while serving I should stand at the right side of the table. I am confused, because I thought it is up to you where you are standing while serving, and your playing partner has to go into a position where he can see well. So is it ok to serve (of course diagonal) from the middle of the table or not?

Thomas

Hi Thomas,

It is up to you and your partner to work out what works best for you.  You can serve by standing near the middle if you want.  If it is inhibiting your partner though you should think about making it easier.  It is important that your partner is ready to play the next ball quickly.