Serves and returns · Beginner
How to play the lob serve in squash.
See the representative arrival, strike, front wall, first bounce, opponent cue and recovery for the lob serve.
In short
Consider the lob serve when the receiver is waiting deep or has an awkward high backhand return. Send the receiver high and wide behind the service box, then look to intercept a loose return.
Watch the trajectory
Blue dashed lines show realistic arrivals one at a time. Yellow shows the strike and outgoing path. The opponent and recovery zone provide tactical context. No players or rackets are shown.
Trajectory, in words
- The blue path or paths show how the ball can arrive before the strike.
- The yellow path reaches front wall in numbered order.
- The first bounce enters the highlighted opposite back-quarter target; the recovery zone anticipates the likely reply.
Blue shows the representative arrival or alternatives converging on one strike. Yellow shows the straight or angled outgoing path for the lob serve. Numbered contacts, the target, opponent position and recovery zone explain the tactical sequence.
Read the opportunity
When should I play it?
- The receiver is waiting deep or has an awkward high backhand return.
- You can reach the strike point in balance rather than forcing the shot.
- You have a clear view, direct access, a safe swing and an unobstructed intended ball line.
Opponent cue
Where should the opponent be?
The receiver is set in the opposite back quarter and may be uncomfortable taking the ball high near the wall.
Intention
What am I trying to achieve?
Send the receiver high and wide behind the service box, then look to intercept a loose return.
Plan the next ball
What is likely to come back?
- A straight return down the wall
- A crosscourt return
- A defensive boast from the back
Follow-up: Move towards the T without blocking the receiver, and prepare to volley only a genuinely loose return.
Where do I recover?
Leave the receiver a direct route and settle near the T while tracking the high descent.
Common mistake
Serving too low or too central, which gives the receiver an easy volley or comfortable swing.
Safety
Stay clear of the receiver's route and swing after the serve.
Sources and review
This is a source-aligned Squash Dog editorial illustration, reviewed 6 September 2026. It represents one useful pattern, not the only valid trajectory, a governing-body endorsement or personal coaching advice.