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Windshield Wiper Forehand |
Though you may not be familiar with the windshield-wiper forehand, you've probably seen it countless times if you watch professional tennis on TV. So named because the motion of the racquet resembles the movement of wiper blades across a car window, this stroke is commonly used by advanced players to handle short balls. When to hit it: Unlike the regular forehand, this shot doesn't produce deep, powerful drives. Instead, it's used to hit heavily spun, controlled shots when you're close to the net. This makes the windshield wiper the perfect choice when you have a short, high sitter and you want to be certain not to hit the ball beyond the baseline. It's also useful for hitting sharp, crosscourt angles. How to hit it: Prepare using an open stance. If you're right-handed, start with the racquet on your right and pointed to the right side (there's no backswing on this shot). Then take your racquet and mimic the movement of a wiper blade, making a 180-degree arc until the frame is pointed to the left side. There is only a small forward movement of the racquet. Try to strike the ball when the racquet is at or near the top of the arc with a slightly closed racquet face. |