Experts constantly debate which tennis professional has the best forehand. While not everyone agrees, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal always are names that enter the conversation. Federer and Nadal have very different forehand styles that complement their game styles. For the amateur player, certain aspects of forehand technique are essential to developing the best forehand possible.
Pick a Forehand
When choosing a professional's stroke to emulate, consider your own game style. If you are a more aggressive player, copy Federer's forehand. If you have a more defensive style, copy Nadal. Their techniques will help you to get the most out of your game.
Roger Federer Forehand
Federer uses an eastern grip on his forehand, allowing for more power and a flatter stroke. This technique translates well to a more offensive all-court game like Federer's. Federer also is well-known for having a particularly smooth and fluid swing. Practice hitting your forehand like Federer with an eastern grip. With a practice partner, rally crosscourt forehands until one of you hits the ball short of the service line. Hit a flatter forehand approach shot and play the point out. Make the drill competitive by playing to 7 points.
Rafael Nadal Forehand
Rafael Nadal has a very different style from Federer but nonetheless a very technically sound forehand. Nadal uses a western grip, a much more extreme grip than Federer's eastern grip. This extreme grip allows Nadal to play with his trademark topspin. Nadal adds to his already considerable spin with a reverse finish, finishing on the same side of his body. While these forehand techniques help to increase spin, they make it difficult for Nadal to flatten out his forehand, making it more difficult to be aggressive. To practice the Nadal style of forehand, use a western grip and aim high over the net. With your practice partner, rally full court. You can only hit forehands: If you hit a backhand you lose the point. Hit with lots of arc and spin to give yourself time to recover.
Similarities in Technique
While the debate continues regarding who has the best technical forehand in tennis, experts agree that there are certain fundamentals common to all great forehands. Every forehand has a unit turn, a looped back swing, a swing from low to high that promotes topspin, and torso rotation through contact. These fundamentals are part of every good forehand and recreational players should adopt these techniques to improve their forehand groundstroke. A private lesson with a certified teaching professional can help to ensure you are using proper technique and prevent the development of bad habits.
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