Tennis Statistics that Decide Matches

Players like Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic win around 55% of the points they play, yet they win around 80% of their matches. This shows that small differences can determine the outcome of tennis matches.

This article will explore the most critical match statistics and how you can improve your game with tennis statistics by Zenniz.

Zenniz provides detailed pro-level statistics that help players take their matches to the next level.

Key Match Statistics

The most important match statistics covered in this article include:

  • First serve percentage

  • First serve points won

  • Second serve points won

  • First serve return points won

  • Short rallies (1-4 shots) won

The Role of Match Statistics

Unlike shot analytics by Zenniz, which focus on how and where you hit the ball, match statistics focus on the outcome of points rather than how they are played.

Tennis statistics provide insights into your effectiveness in different areas of your game, helping you understand why matches are won or lost.

Zenniz offers detailed tennis statistics to players of all levels. Get into the details of your game with Zenniz!

Tennis statistics have long been valuable to coaches and professional players. Spectators also find them interesting during TV broadcasts of professional matches, and as technology advances, match statistics are becoming even more accurate and detailed.

These statistics give an overview of your strengths and weaknesses, helping you improve your game.

Key Match Statistics That Decide Matches

First Serve Percentage & First Serve Points Won

  • These metrics show how effectively you start the point on serve.

  • A high first serve percentage keeps pressure on your opponent, reducing their chances to take control of the points.

  • Winning a lot of points on your first serve indicates that you can dominate the rally from the start.

Second Serve Points Won

  • Winning points on your second serve means your second serve is difficult to attack.

  • It shows you can win points from neutral and defensive positions, or even take control of points with your second serve.

First Serve Return Points Won

  • This stat reflects your ability to neutralize your opponent’s first serve, allowing you to stay in a neutral position when returning.

  • A strong return game results in more break chances and more points won.

Short Rallies (1-4 Shots) Won

  • Most tennis points are short rallies.

  • Dominating 1-4 shot rallies increases your chances of winning the match.

  • Taking control early in the point is crucial to gaining the upper hand.

The Importance of Serve & Return

  • Serve and return are often regarded as the most important shots in tennis.

  • If you serve well, return well, and execute the first few shots effectively, you’ll gain a significant advantage over your opponent.

  • Analyze your serve and return statistics to refine your strategy.

👉 Read this ATP Tour article on serve effectiveness to understand what goes into an effective serve.

📌 Tennis statistics show that serve and return stats often decide matches!

Turning Statistics into Victories

Understanding your statistics is one thing, but implementing them into your matches and practice sessions is where real improvement happens.

Here’s how you can use tennis statistics to improve your game:

1. Tailor Your Training Sessions

Use Zenniz statistics to customize your training based on your needs:

  • Low first serve percentage? Try the Serve to Target drill to improve accuracy and consistency.

  • Struggling in short rallies? Practice Serve + 1 drills to take control with the first shot after your serve.

  • Don’t just fix weaknesses—also strengthen your best shots!

2. Match Strategies

Before a match, review your past match statistics to adjust your strategy:

  • Losing many points on your second serve? Focus on increasing your first serve percentage.

  • Missing a lot of returns? Step back and return with bigger margins.

  • Thriving in longer rallies? Avoid making mistakes early in the point.

3. Track Your Progress

The Zenniz App helps you track your match statistics over time. Set performance goals such as:

  • Achieving a first serve percentage over 70%

  • Returning 80% of second serves in the court

  • Checking if your practice improvements translate into match performance

Data-Driven Tennis: Improve with Zenniz

Use Zenniz and data analytics to elevate your game and become a better tennis player.

📊 Zenniz provides accurate tennis statistics to help you understand your performance.
🎥 Combine video replays and shot maps for deeper analysis.
📌 Focus on key serve & return stats to win more matches.

Tailor your training and strategies to fit your game.
Identify your weaknesses and strengths for balanced practice.

🔹 Want to try Zenniz yourself? Book a Demo