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What are the main technical elements in Francis Tiafoe’s serve?
I have filmed American junior Francis Tiafoe several times at the Easter Bowl over the years. Francis won the tournament (for American juniors) in the 18s this spring, following his win at the Orange Bowl in December over the cream of the international field. All that at the current age of 16.
No one can predict future success in tennis, but I can say that after watching hundreds of juniors over the years, Francis appears to have incredible, natural explosiveness in his strokes, combined with great fluidity and an instinctive feel for the court.
When you look at his serve you see the explosiveness. You also see high level technical elements. But you also see components that vary substantially from elite serving motions.
It’s not unheard of for players, even for players who go on to become Grand Slam winners, to make technical changes at various stages of their careers. Especially if they have problems that are clearly affecting the outcome of matches.
With Francis his serve has been a weapon. The question is whether that can continue to happen.
A deep drop and pro level hand and arm rotation.