The slice is one of those shots that might not look flashy — but it’s sneaky, frustrating to deal with, and incredibly effective when used right.
Whether you’re hitting a slice backhand to neutralize a heavy topspin rally or throwing in a surprise slice forehand, this shot is worth mastering.
What is a slice shot in tennis?
A slice shot in tennis is a shot hit with backspin by brushing down and under the ball with an open racket face. It travels slower, stays low after the bounce, and is often used for control, defense, or to change rally pace.
🧠 Slice Shot Explained
A slice shot is a type of shot where you apply backspin to the ball.
This is done by cutting underneath it with a more vertical swing path and a slightly open racket face.
The ball travels with backspin, floats a bit longer, and stays lower after the bounce.
Slice can be:
- Defensive (deep and low to reset the rally)
- Offensive (skidding approach shots)
- Strategic (breaking your opponent’s rhythm)
Most players use slice on the backhand, but the forehand slice is also useful in certain match situations.
🛠️ How to Hit a Slice Shot
Here’s a quick breakdown of slice shot mechanics:
- Use a Continental grip (same as volley or serve)
- Keep your racket face slightly open
- Take the racket back high
- Swing down and through, brushing under the ball
- Keep a firm wrist and stay relaxed
This motion creates that familiar backspin glide.
🧠 Tip: Don’t chop or flick — think carving or brushing, like slicing through butter.
🎯 When to Use a Slice Shot
The slice isn’t just for emergencies. Here’s where it shines:
| Situation | Why Use a Slice |
|---|---|
| When under pressure | Buys time and keeps the ball low |
| Approach shots | Keeps the ball skidding low, forces errors |
| Against heavy topspin | Neutralizes spin and slows the rally |
| To mix rhythm | Throws off timing and frustrates opponents |
| Low balls | Easier to slice than hit topspin from low contact points |
Especially in fast or low-bounce surfaces (like grass or indoor), the slice becomes a powerful tool.
🆚 Slice vs Topspin
| Feature | Slice | Topspin |
|---|---|---|
| Spin | Backspin | Forward spin |
| Bounce | Low, skids | High, jumps |
| Pace | Slower, floats | Faster, drives |
| Control | High | Moderate |
| Best Use | Defense, net play, rhythm change | Rallying, power, spin-heavy exchanges |
✋ Common Mistakes
- Over-chopping: Leads to floating or short balls. Use a smooth, controlled swing.
- Gripping too tight: Results in stiff, awkward shots. Stay relaxed.
- No follow-through: Finish low and across, not just down.
- Not bending knees: You need to stay low to hit clean slices consistently.
🎾 Famous Players Who Use Slice Effectively
- Roger Federer – backhand slice to disrupt rhythm
- Ash Barty – mix-up tool to control rallies
- Stefanos Tsitsipas – neutralizer on defense
- Carla Suárez Navarro – soft, knifing slice approach shots
Why the Offensive Slice Is My Go-To Weapon 🎯
Slice has always been one of my favorite shots. There are two types of slices — the offensive slice and the defensive slice.
I personally prefer the offensive slice: it has medium pace, stays low, lands deep, feels heavy, and is perfect for approaching the net.
For me, the key to a great slice is keeping my body as relaxed as possible while following through with both my arm and my body.
It’s not just for defense — you can use it to attack a backhand, or even a forehand if your opponent is very tall or struggles with low balls.
📥 Final Thoughts
The slice shot isn’t just a “defensive” tool — it’s a weapon when used with intention.
It changes the tempo of a rally, forces errors, and opens up the court in ways topspin can’t.
Whether you’re just learning or want to sharpen your control game, adding a reliable slice can take your tennis IQ —
and your win percentage — up a notch.
Practice it with purpose. Vary depth. Mix it with your regular rally balls. And watch how your opponents struggle to adjust.
FAQ
What is a slice shot in tennis?
A slice is struck with a slightly open racquet face and a down-through-forward path to create backspin, making the ball travel slower and stay low after the bounce
Is slice only for the backhand?
No. The backhand slice is more common, but a forehand slice is useful for approach shots, low balls, and rhythm changes.
What grip should I use for slice?
Use Continental (most consistent). Some players blend toward Eastern backhand for a knifing backhand slice.
How do I keep my slice low and heavy?
Keep the wrist firm, racquet face slightly open, swing down and forward (not just down), contact in front, and stay relaxed through the follow-through.
When should I use an offensive vs defensive slice?
Offensive: Medium pace, deep, skidding—great for approaches or to pin a weak wing.
Defensive: Higher, floatier—buys time to recover when stretched.
What are common slice mistakes?
Over-chopping (balls float), gripping too tight, contact too far back, and stopping the racquet instead of gliding throughthe ball.
Is slice good for beginners?
Yes—especially for low balls and learning control. Start with short swings and aim deep cross-court.
Can I use slice on serve?
Yes—slice serves curve laterally and stay lower; aim deuce side for right-handers (opposite for lefties).
What’s the difference between a chip and a slice?
A chip is a shorter, blocking slice—minimal swing for quick redirection. A slice is a fuller stroke with a deliberate down-through-forward path.
Which surfaces reward slice the most?
Grass and many indoor hard courts exaggerate skid. On high-bounce clay, focus on depth and width to keep it effective.