Left Hand Positioning

Key Points

• Ready Position: The left hand should be up in the ready position for better balance and preparation, avoiding tension from keeping it down.
• Balance Advantage: A raised left hand ensures stability and fluid movement, while a lowered hand creates heaviness and restricts readiness.
• Left Hand in Shots: Forehand, serve, volley, slice, drop shot: Left hand remains up for control and balance. Backhand topspin: Left hand drops during the swing but starts up in the ready position.
• Learning from Pros: Djokovic and Nadal keep their left hands up on returns, ensuring quick preparation and strong positioning, especially for backhands.
• Focus for Women and Juniors: Many juniors and women naturally keep their left hands down; focusing on keeping it up can improve readiness and execution.