Played a first shot that was adequate (6)
I believe the answer is:
served
'was adequate' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for served that I've seen before include "Dished up" , "In tennis, put the ball in play, or attended to customers" , "Struck opening ball in tennis game" , "Versed (anag)" , "Started a game of tennis" .)