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Strokemaster
STROKE MASTER
A top 40 stalwart for more than a decade, Fernando Verdasco is best known for his whipping forehand. But as the Spaniard maintains superb consistency at age 31, other aspects of his technique are equally reliable – like the slice backhand approach, that’s broken down by our Stroke Master, CALLUM BEALE.
What do you see?
The non-dominant arm sets and stabilises the racquet above the height of the oncoming ball. A wide and neutral stance is adopted, which will encourage linear momentum through contact. Shoulders and hips have turned for better alignment with the oncoming ball.
Racquet will travel a highlow-high swing path. Eye gaze is fixated on the oncoming ball. A balanced position assisted by a wide base, sound posture, and stable head position.
PRESENTED BY
Callum Beale, a former professional who achieved singles and doubles rankings on the ATP tour, is Tennis Australia’s Coach and Talent Development Manager in NSW. He has a Bachelor of Applied Science, Human Movement.
www.tennis.com.au/coaches
MAY 2015 AUSTRALIAN TENNIS MAGAZINE
31