🎾If you want to be more than just a hitter and become a true player, mastering spin and shot variety is essential. In today’s game, players who can change the pace, height, and bounce of the ball—not just hit hard—are the ones who win big and break opponents down.
Let’s break down three key elements of smart shot-making: Topspin, Slice, and Shot Variety. Whether you’re a junior developing your toolkit or an adult player looking to step up your strategy, understanding these tools can transform your game.
🔄 Topspin: Your Consistency Weapon
Topspin causes the ball to dip down into the court faster, allowing you to swing more aggressively while still keeping the ball in play.
Benefits of Topspin:
- Keeps the ball in the court on high-power swings
- Helps you hit higher over the net with safety
- Makes the ball bounce higher, pushing opponents back
- Crucial for groundstrokes and topspin lobs
How to Add Topspin:
- Use an Eastern, Semi-western or Western grip (on the forehand)
- Brush up the back of the ball with a low-to-high swing path 🎾⬆️
- Finish high over your shoulder or around your head
Drill to Try: Hit cross-court rally balls with the challenge of clearing a rope or barrier 3 feet above the net. Focus on net clearance with spin, not flat pace.
🔪 Slice: Your Control and Disruption Tool
The slice keeps the ball low and skids through the court, making it difficult for opponents to attack. It’s not just for defense—it’s a weapon.
Benefits of Slice:
- Breaks up the rhythm of baseline rallies
- Keeps the ball low, especially effective on fast or low-bounce courts
- Great for approach shots and drop shots
How to Hit a Slice:
- Use a continental grip 🏸
- Swing high to low with a slightly open racquet face
- Keep the ball in front and drive through it with smooth contact
Drill to Try: Play a mini-game using only slice shots. Focus on depth and keeping the ball under net height.
🧠 Smart Shot Variety: Thinking Like a Chess Player
It’s not about just hitting the ball—it’s about crafting points. Changing pace, spin, and placement forces your opponent to adjust. That’s where the errors come from.
Keys to Smart Variety:
- Mix topspin, slice, and flat shots based on the situation
- Use crosscourt shots to open up the court and down-the-line to surprise
- Add drop shots or lobs when your opponent is out of position
- Develop a go-to combo: for example, deep topspin + short slice
Situational Awareness Tip: 🎾 When your opponent is far behind the baseline? Hit a short slice. If they’re standing inside the court? Use deep, heavy topspin to push them back.
Drill to Try: Play points where every shot in the rally must be different—topspin, slice, lob, flat. Reward creativity over winning.
📈 Final Thought: Add Tools to Your Tennis Toolbox
The best players at every level know how to change it up. Don’t just practice your favorite shot—practice using the right shot at the right time. Variety doesn’t just make you harder to beat—it makes you a smarter, more complete player.
Keep training with intention and remember: faith and focus go hand in hand with footwork and feel. That’s FOFTA.
