Question: Which forehand grip is best for topspin?
Answer: Players who hit with a full Western grip generally hit the heaviest topspin. The Western grip almost forces one to hit topspin, because without a sharply upward motion, it's hard to get the ball over the net. A Semi-Western grip has a similar, but milder effect, allowing flatter shots, if wanted, and better handling of low balls. It's possible to hit just as much topspin with the highly versatile Eastern grip, but the most natural swing with an Eastern grip does not whip upward as much. Hitting heavy topspin with the nearly extinct Continental forehand grip might be possible, but it would put uncomfortable stresses on your arm.
See also: Photo Tour of the Forehand Grips
