Final answer:
Players receiving the serve should be located near the baseline to have enough time to react and position themselves for the return. Being closer to the net would leave more space open on the sides for the server to hit angled shots.
Step-by-step explanation:
The players receiving the serve in tennis should be located near the baseline. They usually stand just behind the service line, which is the line that marks the back of the service box. This allows them to have enough time to react to the serve and position themselves properly to return the ball.
By standing near the baseline, players can also cover more of the court and have a better chance of returning the serve successfully. Being closer to the net would leave more space open on the sides of the court, making it easier for the server to hit an angled shot that would be difficult to retrieve.
Overall, being located near the baseline gives players the best chance to return a serve and be in a good position for the following shots.