If you’re looking to add finesse and versatility to your game, mastering the backhand slice is essential. Cameron Norrie, known for his crafty shot-making and tactical prowess, demonstrates the effectiveness of the backhand slice on the ATP tour. In our latest video tutorial, we break down Norrie’s technique and provide two key steps for executing a backhand slice like a pro, along with strategic insights on when to use it to gain the upper hand in matches.

1) Preparation:

Racket Positioning: Begin by positioning the racket head up and slightly elevated above the ball. This allows you to generate the necessary lift and control for a clean slice.

Elbow & Wrist Alignment: Keep your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle, with your wrist bent upward. This positioning ensures proper alignment and stability throughout your swing.

Shoulder Direction: Align your shoulder towards the ball, maintaining a forward-facing stance to facilitate a smooth and fluid motion.

2) Contact Point:

Swing Direction: Strike the ball with an up to down motion, slicing through the back of the ball to impart spin and control.

Racket Alignment: As you follow through, ensure your racket face (or plate) remains perpendicular to your target’s direction. This ensures accuracy and consistency in your slice.

Wrist Extension: Fully extend your wrist upon contact with the ball, providing additional spin and control for a precise shot placement.

Strategic Insights:

1. Disrupt the Rhythm: Introducing a slice into baseline rallies can disrupt your opponent’s rhythm, forcing them to adjust to a different bounce, pace, and spin. This tactical variation can lead to weaker replies or errors from your opponent.

2. Placement:

• Deep to the Backhand: Slice deep into your opponent’s backhand corner to push them back or induce a weak reply, setting up opportunities to attack with your forehand.
• Short Angle: Execute a well-placed short angle slice to pull your opponent off the court, exposing the other side for a potential winner or forcing shot.

3. Use as a Set-up Shot: The slice isn’t always about winning the point outright. It can be used strategically to elicit a weak reply, allowing you to anticipate the next shot and position yourself for an offensive opportunity.

4. Transition to the Net: Confident in your net play? Use the slice to approach the net, creating opportunities to volley or put away weak replies with well-placed volleys.

5. Recovery Position: After executing the slice, quickly transition to the middle of the court or slightly to the forehand side, anticipating the next shot and covering the court effectively with your forehand.

By mastering the backhand slice and incorporating strategic insights into your game, you can disrupt your opponent’s rhythm, create opportunities for attack, and ultimately gain the upper hand in matches. Practice consistency and variation in your slice to make it an effective tool in your arsenal, just like Cameron Norrie.