How to float a slice?

[EuroMagnum]

I've been in countless situations when I need to get a low ball over the net easier, and I used to be able to slice the ball so that you could see it kind of float upward over the net. How is this done, because I can't seem to do it at all anymore no matter how hard I hit the slice...

 

[goober]

open your racquet face more.

But why would anyone want to float a slice? It is an easy shot for your opponent to go on the offensive on.

 

[skuludo]

I hit mine by
1. Cut under the ball.
2. Lift the ball over the net.

The amount of lift will control how high the ball will clear the net. With the right amount of lift and cut I can skim the net and hit it deep or short.

 

[Bagumbawalla]

You know how, in chopping down a tree, you create a sideways "V" shaped area that you chop out. You chop up, and then you chop down.

That "down chop" is what you are looking for. When you are stretched wide and can't hit a normal topspin drive, you can sort of "chop" the ball (sometimes called a "squash shot") this will put lots of underspin on the ball and float it back low and deep.

Good luck,

B

 

[skuludo]

Chopping down is a high risk shot when the ball is low. You are depending on the ball coming off the strings and popping up slightly. If the ball fails to pop off your strings for some reason you won't get the ball over the net.

Two factors will determine whether the ball will pop off your string in these situations (a) you chop down too fast and (b) a mishit.

If the ball is above the net by "a good amount", then chopping at it won't be a problem.

Always provide your own lift for the best safety margin when you slice low balls.


Cut and lift means you slice from low to high. How much low to high will control how high you want the ball to clear the net. Use your hands to feel the control. You'll get use to this eventualy.
Do you understand EuroMagnum?

 

[skuludo]

Another way to pharse this is the shot is actually a mini underspin lob. Mini meaning that your shot barely clears the net.

If you can hit a slice lob, then just lower the projectile and it should float/pierce and skim the net.

 

[StealthGnome]

Can anyone find a slow-mo video of someones good technique?
I can't seem to get a hand on it.