How to Hit a Backhand Slice in Tennis
As tennis has become more of a baseline-oriented power game, the backhand slice doesn't play as large a role in the game as it once did, but played well, and used selectively, it is still a shot that can add valuable variety to your game.Particularly useful against players who have trouble getting down to low balls, a well-executed slice is also a great equalizer when it comes to facing power players whose groundstrokes are stronger than yours. Big hitting baseliners thrive on power, so taking the pace off the ball with a low, skidding slice forces them to generate their own power. Changing the pace and tempo of a rally in this way can take them out of their comfort zone and rhythm, and force errors.Here are a few things you need to remember when executing a backhand slice:
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Instructions
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Stay mobile. As with any tennis shot, your positioning is crucial, so make sure that you keep your feet moving so that you're always ready to make those small steps necessary to get in position for the shot.
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Choose your grip. If you're a heavy topspinner who favors the rather extreme western backhand grip, you'll want to modify it to an Eastern or even a Continental grip to be able to hit with slice. The Continental grip is probably the best choice, since as well as being an ideal grip for imparting the underspin needed for the backhand slice, it's also suitable for both the backhand and forehand volley. This is particularly useful if you're using the slice as an approach shot, since you'll not have to worry about having to hurriedly change grips as you move into a volleying position.
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Make sure that you prepare by moving into a closed stance by turning your shoulders as the ball approaches your backhand side. This means that you'll be sideways to the oncoming ball with the weight mainly on your left leg (assuming you're a right-hander) in preparation for the shot.
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With your non-racquet hand on the throat of the racquet for guidance, take back the racquet to a point a little higher than the intended contact point. The racquet face should be slightly open and maintain its angle throughout the shot. Be careful not to make it too open or that deep slice may end up being a poorly executed drop-shot.
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As with a backhand volley, the wrist should be locked and the racquet head should remain above the wrist throughout. Transferring your weight onto the right leg, make the swing smooth as the racquet moves from a high to a slightly lower position, and brush down the back of the ball. This spin is key to its effectiveness, as it helps the ball's trajectory stay low as it crosses the net, and keeps the resulting bounce low.
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On the follow-through, the racquet should end up out in front of you. Be careful that it doesn't end up swinging across your body. This will put side spin on the ball, and unless you have fabulous touch, the ball will likely end up drifting wide.Your non-racquet arm should act as a counterbalance for your swing and should end up pointing behind you.
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Tips & Warnings
Try to lean into the shot as you hit it. You'll be using the momentum of your body to put more weight into it, which should result in a more biting shot. If your weight is on your back foot, you're probably going to be leaning backwards and you're liable to float the ball back.
Start the swing with a slightly bent elbow and straighten as you make contact. If your elbow is bent at contact you're adding another variable to the shot, which will hamper your consistency.
Try not to use your arm or wrist to stab at the ball to generate pace. If you need a little more pace and penetration on your shot, experiment with a slightly less open racquet face. The more open the racquet face, the more severe the spin, which slows down the ball. Hitting a slightly flatter stroke will give the shot a little more weight. Either way, the stroke should be smooth and steady.
