High Backhand
Also known as: high ball backhand, high balls to the backhand, shoulder-high backhand, high bouncing ball, high topspin to the backhand, handling high balls
For a high backhand, step in and take the ball before it climbs above your shoulder, or move back and let it drop. If you must hit it high, turn early, set the racquet level with the ball and swing more level through contact. A high, deep slice is often the safest reply for one-handers.
High, heavy topspin to the backhand is a common tactic. The ball kicks up above the shoulder, where it is hard to control. One-handed players feel it most. One arm has less leverage that high. Two-handers can drive the ball more easily but still lose control if it gets too high.
The first answer is position. Step in and take the ball on the rise, before it peaks. Or retreat and let it come down to chest height or lower. Both beat getting caught at the peak, where the ball is highest. Read the high ball early and decide quickly.
When you have to hit it high, turn the shoulders early and set the racquet up level with or above the ball. Swing more level through contact instead of brushing up steeply. Keep contact in front. For one-handers, a high slice or a firm block is a reliable reply. Two-handers can drive through the ball with a slightly closed racquet face.
Tips by skill level
Practice moving to high balls. Have a partner feed high, loopy balls and alternate between stepping in early and backing up to let them drop.
Use the high backhand to change the rally. A deep slice or an early take on the rise can turn the opponent's pattern back on them.
Example
An opponent keeps looping high topspin to Sam's one-handed backhand. He starts stepping in to take it on the rise. When he gets caught deep, he answers with a high, deep slice, and the pattern loses its sting.
Why it matters
High balls to the backhand are a favorite tactic in club and league tennis. A reliable answer stops opponents from targeting that side every rally.
Common mistakes
- Getting stuck at the baseline and hitting the ball at its peak above the shoulder
- Brushing up steeply on a ball that is already high
- Turning late and letting the ball get beside the body
- Trying to drive every high ball with a one-hander instead of using slice
Frequently asked questions
How do I hit a high backhand?
Take it early before it climbs above your shoulder, or back up and let it drop. If you must hit it high, turn early, set the racquet level with the ball and swing more level through contact.
How do I handle high balls on my one-handed backhand?
Step in and take them on the rise, or use a high, deep slice. Driving a shoulder-high ball with one hand is hard. Choose position and slice over force.
Should I use slice on high backhands?
Often, yes. A slice from a high contact point is easier to control than a topspin drive. Keep the face slightly open, swing high to low and aim deep.
Is a high backhand volley the same as a high backhand?
No. A high backhand is a groundstroke hit after the bounce, usually from the baseline. A high backhand volley is hit out of the air at the net with a continental grip and a short punch.
Related terms
- Hitting on the RiseHitting on the rise means meeting the ball on its way up, soon after the bounce, instead of waiting for it to peak or drop. To do it, stand on or just inside the baseline, turn early, shorten the backswing, stay low and make contact out in front with a steady racquet face.
- One-Handed BackhandA one-handed backhand uses only the dominant hand. It gives more reach and disguise than a two-hander, but less stability against high-bouncing pace.
- Two-Handed BackhandA two-handed backhand places both hands on the grip, with the non-dominant hand providing additional stability, power, and disguise through contact.
- Backhand Slice GripThe backhand slice grip is usually a continental or mild eastern-backhand grip. It naturally opens the face for the high-to-low swing that makes underspin.
- Moon BallA moon ball is a very high, heavily topspun groundstroke. It disrupts rhythm and buys recovery time without going as high or defensive as a lob.
- Contact PointOn a forehand, meet the ball out in front of your body, at a comfortable distance to the side and around waist height. A one-handed backhand meets the ball even further in front, and a two-handed backhand a little closer to the body. On the serve, hit the ball at full reach, slightly in front.
Related guides & benchmarks
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