The Art of Hitting a Padel Backhand Slice: Tips and Tricks

As a padel player, you might have found yourself in a situation where the ball is coming towards your backhand side, and you need to hit a slice to keep it going. Hitting a backhand slice in padel can be challenging, but with the right technique and practice, you can master it. In this article, we’ll discuss the art of hitting a padel backhand slice, along with some tips and tricks to help you improve your game.

Understanding the Backhand Slice

The backhand slice is a defensive shot that is used to keep the ball in play when it’s coming towards your backhand side. The slice is hit by brushing the ball from low to high with an open racket face. This imparts backspin on the ball, causing it to dip and bounce low when it reaches the opponent’s side of the court.

Mastering the Technique

To hit a perfect backhand slice, you need to have the right technique. Start by positioning yourself correctly, so that you are balanced and ready to hit the ball. As the ball approaches, take a step towards it and swing your racket from low to high. Make sure your racket face is open, and you are brushing the ball from bottom to top.

Tip: Keep Your Wrist Loose

Keeping your wrist loose is vital when hitting a backhand slice. If your wrist is stiff, you will not be able to brush the ball correctly, and it will likely fly out of bounds. Try to keep your wrist relaxed and let the racket do the work.

Trick: Aim for the Side Wall

When hitting a backhand slice, aim for the side wall instead of the middle of the court. By doing so, you increase the angle of your shot, making it difficult for your opponent to return. This trick is especially useful when playing against opponents who prefer to play close to the net.

Practice Makes Perfect

The key to mastering the backhand slice is practice. Spend time on the court hitting slices from different positions, angles, and speeds. Experiment with the amount of spin you put on the ball and see how it affects your opponent’s return. The more you practice, the better you will become at hitting a perfect backhand slice.

Tip: Combine with Other Shots

To make your backhand slice an even more effective shot, combine it with other shots. For example, hit a slice followed by a lob or a cross-court forehand to keep your opponent guessing. This will also help you get out of defensive positions and take control of the game.

Conclusion

The backhand slice is an essential shot in padel, and mastering it can take your game to the next level. Focus on the technique, keep your wrist loose, and practice as much as you can. Remember to aim for the side wall and combine your backhand slice with other shots to keep your opponent guessing. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be hitting the perfect padel backhand slice in no time!