Strategy: Low slice to the Forehand

Key Points

• Disrupt Opponent's Rhythm: Use a low slice to target your opponent’s forehand, especially if they have a western, or eastern grip, to make them lift the ball uncomfortably.
• Exploiting Grips: Players with extreme grips (e.g., western) often struggle to handle low balls, increasing the chance of errors like shanks or weak returns.
• Strategic Setup: Start with a slice to their forehand, disrupt their preferred shot, and then open the court to attack their backhand or weaker side.
• Adaptation for Surfaces: Effective on faster surfaces like indoor courts, grass, or quick hard courts. On slower surfaces like clay, adjust for conditions (e.g., heavy balls or wind) by preparing earlier and moving quicker.
• Surprise Element: The slice down the line is a great surprise tactic, breaking rhythm and catching opponents off guard when they expect a crosscourt slice.
• Counterplay Insight: Most players will return a forehand crosscourt after receiving a slice, allowing you to prepare a strong forehand response to their backhand.
• Big Point Strategy: Use this play in critical moments to break long rallies, disrupt rhythm, and take control of the point by forcing defensive responses.
• Follow-Up Opportunities: Approach down the line if the return is weak. Hit heavy forehands down the line to push your opponent into defensive positions.