watch WMV video (81 KB)
watch RM video (73 KB)
A slice backhand can have either pure backspin or a mixture of backspin and sidespin. At one time, slice meant sidespin when used in reference to groundstrokes, but now it's more commonly taken to mean backspin. This slice backhand is almost pure backspin. Its sidespin cousin will be shown and discussed in a separate article.
Key points:
- Grip: Any grip between the full Eastern backhand (used here) and the Continental can work well for a slice backhand. See Super Shots: Slice Backhand for a detailed discussion of grip choices.
- Footwork: Take several small steps to fine-tune your positioning. Take a larger final step toward the ball with your front foot to initiate your forward weight transfer.
- Square stance: Align your feet so that a line from the back foot through the front foot runs parallel to the sideline.
- Backswing: Bring the racquet back and up, so that your second hand, which is holding the throat of the racquet gently, is somewhat behind and above your ear. You'll let go with your second hand before you swing, but it's important in helping to set your backswing position and turn your upper body.
- Swing forward and downward: Swing forward toward your target and, at the same time, downward. The more downward you swing, the more backspin you'll create, the more you'll need to tilt your racquet face upward to give the ball enough lift to clear the net, and the less certain will be your clean contact with the ball. Lean forward to generate power.
- Point of contact: Meet the ball roughly one foot farther forward than your front shoulder.
- Finish fairly square: If you swing straight forward and somewhat downward, you'll finish with your feet and hips mostly square, but a forceful swing will make your shoulders turn partly toward the net.
Basic One-Handed Topspin Backhand
