The Slice Backhand Vs. The Topspin Backhand: Which Is Better?

The backhand is a fundamental shot in tennis that can be hit with two different swings: the slice backhand and the topspin backhand. Both shots are equally important and have their unique advantages. However, many players struggle to choose between the two and often wonder which is a better shot. I will discuss the differences between the slice backhand and topspin backhand and which one may be more suitable for your game.

Slice Backhand

The slice backhand is a shot that requires the player to hit the ball with a downward motion. The player can hit the ball at different angles, and it is an excellent shot for defensive plays, as it can keep the ball low and slow. If you are not confident with your backhand, or you are playing against a powerful hitter, then the slice backhand is the best option for you. It requires less power and more finesse, and with good slice technique, you can slow down the pace of the ball to give you time to recover for your next shot. The slice backhand is arguably the most underrated tennis shot.

The downside to the slice backhand is that it doesn't have much power. Since the ball is moving downward, it's challenging to generate a lot of pace on the shot. Moreover, if the slice backhand is executed poorly, it can lead to a short ball, making it easy for your opponent to attack.

Topspin Backhand

The topspin backhand is a more aggressive shot than the slice backhand. It requires the player to hit the ball with an upward motion, generating topspin on the ball. The topspin backhand is an excellent shot for players who have more confidence in their backhands, and it is the preferred shot for those who want to hit the ball with power and accuracy. The topspin backhand is a good option for offensive plays, as it allows the player to hit the ball with a lot of pace and bounce. However, topspin backhands can be challenging to perform in situations where you are under pressure, and you don’t have enough time for your shot preparation.

Shot Selection

Which one should you use? The answer to this question depends on your playing style, your opponent's playing style, and the type of situation you are in. For instance, if your opponent is always hitting balls with power and pace, it would be better to use the slice backhand to counter their shots. On the other hand, if you have an opportunity to attack your opponent, it would be better to use the topspin backhand to hit the ball harder and faster.

One thing to note is that both shots have a significant impact on a player's physical strain. The slice backhand is relatively easy to execute and puts minimal stress on a player's body. In contrast, topspin requires a lot of power, and it is more physically demanding. Topspin backhands, if not executed correctly, can hurt your tennis elbow, which is a common tennis injury that occurs due to overuse of the elbow joint.

Technical Differences

The slice and topspin backhands require different technical approaches. For the slice backhand, the player needs to grip the racket with an eastern or continental grip and swing downward while slightly opening their racket face. On the other hand, for the topspin backhand, players typically use a semi-western or full-western grip and generate upward momentum on their shot by swinging up and brushing over the ball.

Which Is Better?

Both the slice backhand and topspin backhand have their advantages, and both are essential shots for different situations. It ultimately comes down to your playing style and what shot you feel more comfortable hitting. If you are a beginner or have a weaker backhand, then the slice backhand is an excellent option. As you progress and become more confident with your backhand, you can start incorporating topspin backhands into your game for a more powerful and aggressive shot.

The slice backhand is a faster and a more straightforward shot to execute.

Conclusion

Both the slice backhand and topspin backhand are important shots in tennis, and understanding when to use each one is crucial for success on the court. As a general rule, the slice backhand is useful for defensive plays, while the topspin backhand is better for offensive plays. However, it's essential to practice both shots and understand their technical differences to become a well-rounded player. By incorporating both shots into your game, you can become a more versatile and unpredictable player, making it challenging for opponents to read and anticipate your shots. So, next time you are on the court, try mixing up your backhand shots and see which one works best for you in different situations.