Specialty Shots (Slice)

France's Amelie Mauresmo getting

ready to put some serious spin on this slice

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You have a bad backhand and everyone knows it. They hit shot after shot at your backhand ALL DAY. The longer the rally goes, the more confidence you lose. You wish there was a simpler way to hit a backhand that will not take so much concentration!!! Well there is, it’s called a slice.


Roger Federer (Switzerland) at the top. Mikhail Youzhny (Russia) at the bottom.

Detailed Youzhny Backhand Slice

Many people pick up a slice for a backhand because it is easier for them to hit one. But if you have a decent backhand then the slice can add variety to your strokes. It can also help you if you have a two handed backhand that doesn’t work well on the run. When you hit the slice, make sure you:

1. Use continental grip (like you are holding the hammer)
2. Swing from high to low
3. Step on the same side foot (right hand slice, right foot)

Some people don't use a continental grip for a slice. They use a one handed backhand grip instead. There is nothing wrong with that. Whatever works for you is good. But if you are just starting to use the slice, continental is easier because there are many more examples to learn from.

Mike "the Cannon" showing
off his backhand grip slice

With the slice in your arsenal you will find that your net game will elevate and your backhand will be more solid.

Some slow mo links if you want more examples:
Roger Federer Slice
Justine Henin Slice
Amelie Mauresmo Slice