Quick Answer:
Tennis players reject balls to choose one with the best bounce, felt texture, and consistency for their next serve.
Newer, fluffier balls slow down slightly, while older, smoother balls travel faster — so players inspect and select to control serve speed and accuracy.
Why Tennis Players Reject Balls
Before every serve, players usually receive two or three balls from the ball kids — but they often send one back. This isn’t random.
Each ball behaves differently depending on wear, pressure, and surface contact.
Choosing the right one can subtly influence the outcome of a rally or serve game.
1️⃣ Ball Condition and Performance
After just a few games, tennis balls begin to change.
The felt gets worn down, and the internal pressure starts to drop.
A ball with flatter felt moves through the air faster and bounces lower, perfect for a big first serve.
Meanwhile, a fluffier ball creates more air resistance, making it easier to control — great for a slower second serve or for rallies on clay courts.
2️⃣ Strategy Behind the Selection
Elite players use ball condition strategically.
For example, they might pick an older, smoother ball for an ace attempt and reject newer ones that slow down in flight.
Others do the opposite — opting for a fluffier ball to kick up higher and force weak returns.
It’s part of the small, unnoticed tactics that separate pros from club-level players.
3️⃣ Psychological and Routine Factors
Ritual plays a huge part in tennis.
Choosing and rejecting balls gives players a moment to reset and focus before serving.
It helps calm nerves, regulate breathing, and mentally prepare for the next point.
This pre-serve routine is as much about concentration as it is about physics.
4️⃣ Ball Consistency Across Points
Tournament balls are replaced every seven to nine games, meaning that not every ball in play has the same wear.
By quickly evaluating bounce and texture, players ensure they’re starting each point with a consistent feel.
Even a minor difference in ball weight or fuzz can affect spin control and timing.
For professionals, that margin matters.
5️⃣ The Role of Surface and Conditions
Ball selection doesn’t happen in isolation — it depends heavily on court surface and weather.
On clay courts, fluffier balls pick up more dust and slow down rallies, so players often reject them for smoother ones that cut through the air.
On hard courts, slightly worn balls are preferred because they bounce more predictably and skid faster.
Even humidity plays a role: moist felt becomes heavier, reducing speed, while dry air makes balls bounce higher.
Understanding these micro-differences lets top players fine-tune every serve for the conditions, giving them subtle but consistent control across surfaces.
My Experience with Ball Selection
I used to think pros were just stalling when rejecting balls — until I tried it myself.
During practice sessions, I noticed that slightly worn balls gave me more power, especially on flat serves.
It helped me understand why the top players take those extra seconds before serving.
Choosing the right ball adds both comfort and confidence at the line.
Conclusion
Tennis players reject balls to gain small but meaningful advantages — consistency, control, and confidence.
It’s not superstition or showmanship; it’s science and focus in action.
The right ball helps them serve precisely how they want, keeping every point under control from the very first shot.
🏸 FAQ
Why do players ask for multiple balls before serving?
They want to compare bounce, felt, and pressure to find the ball that best suits their next serve.
Do newer balls travel slower or faster?
Newer balls are fluffier and slower; older ones have less felt, travel faster, and bounce lower.
Is rejecting balls part of superstition?
Partly — for some, it’s also a mental routine to refocus before critical points.
Do amateur players need to do this?
Not really, but paying attention to ball condition can still improve control and consistency.
Why are balls changed after a few games?
Because their pressure and felt wear out quickly — fresh balls restore fairness and uniformity across play.