Grips - Introduction

Explanation:

Since the 1970's at least 3 new grips have been introduced and changed the game of tennis. In the 70's and 80's the eastern and continental grips were the most popular for all strokes, as these grips generated the most power, but did lack variety and spin.

However in the 1990's players introduced a combination of power, spin, and placement, by exaggerating the grip on the racket. This produced the western, semi-western, and continental - semi-western grips. Just by changing the placement of the hand slightly on the handle gives the racket face a new angle, and creates spin on the ball. In todays game players use topspin when hitting the ball with power to bring the ball down faster after clearing the net. Backspin is used by the players to stop their volleys closer to the net, making it difficult for opponents to chase down and return the ball. The players can also use sidespin or slice to slow the ball down, meaning a lower bounce when it hits the court, making it difficult for the opponent to pick up and generate power.

Apart from the different hand placements, the palm and digits of the hand also has 2 ways to hold the racket which can determine which type of shot is played. If a player wants to play a sharp crosscourt shot or serve with control and placement the forefinger and thumb should tighten on the racket. However when a player wants to play deep forehand and backhand shots in a baseline rally, the little, ring, and middle fingers should squeeze the handle harder.

Learning, using, and understanding all of these grips takes much time and patience, but after all the best grip is the most comfortable grip.

Other Grips and Techniques: