goofy ahh tennis terms

Forehand

Semi-western grip is used. Swing the racket across the body with the palm facing forward toward the direction of the shot.

Backhand

Both hands are on the racket, with the non-dominant hand above the dominant one. Swing around the body with the back of the hand leading.

Volley

Performed near the net. Use a continental grip and hit the ball before it bounces with a short, punch-like motion.

Serve

Starts every point. Use a continental grip and swing upward with full-body rotation and fluid motion.

Overhead Smash

Hit above the head using a motion similar to a serve. Use a continental grip to drive the ball down forcefully into the opponent's court.

Slice

Used to create backspin and control the pace of the game. Achieved with a continental grip and a downward chopping motion.

Topspin

Forward rotation is created by brushing up on the ball, helping it dip quickly and stay in play.

Backspin

Backward rotation slows and floats the ball. Typically created with a chopping or slicing motion.

Rally

A continuous sequence of shots exchanged between players within a point.

Follow Through

Ends a groundstroke with the thumb touching the shoulder, ensuring full swing motion.

Baseline

Back boundary line of the court, parallel to the net.

Center Mark

Divides the baseline and marks legal positioning for serving on deuce and ad sides.

Service Line

Line parallel to the net that marks the back of the service box. Serves must land in front of it to count.

Alley

Narrow area between the singles and doubles sidelines, used only in doubles play.

Net

Mesh barrier across the middle of the court that the ball must be hit over during play.