How To Master The Backhand Slice
This film shows you how to master the backhand slice in order to score more points against your opponent. A shot that was perfected by Steffi Graf; learn how to use the backhand slice as an aggressive and defensive tennis shot.
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Step 1:
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Your grip
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For a backhand slice keep the racket in the continental, or chopper grip. This is the same grip you're already using for the ready position.
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The V of your thumb and forefinger should be just to the left of the top of the grip.
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Step 2:
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Approach the ball
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As you move towards the ball, simply pivot your feet to the side. This will place your front shoulder square-on to the ball, ready for the backswing.
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As you approach the shot, position yourself slightly wide of the ball
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Step 3:
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Your backswing
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With your arm slightly bent, take your racket back across your chest.
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Use your non-hitting hand to bring the racket high; almost behind your head.
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Load your weight onto your back foot.
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Step 4:
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Your Swing
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As the ball arrives transfer your weight onto your front foot and lean into the shot.
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The racket swing is a knifing action down from high to low. This grates the racket strings down the back of the ball, which really makes the ball fizz with all the backspin.
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Step 5:
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Follow through
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Try to add to the high to low swing by extending the racket head out through the ball towards the target.
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Feel your spare hand extend out behind you as a counterbalance to the forwards swing. Remain balanced for a second or two after the ball has gone, and then return to the ready position.
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A backhand slice gives a low, flat trajectory over the net. It can be used on the offensive as well as a tool for defence when you're stretched out wide.
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You've just mastered the backhand slice, the VideoJug way!
