A Western grip is used in tennis for a one-handed backhand return that generates a powerful topspin on the tennis ball. The Western grip is less frequently used in tennis than other grips such as the Eastern forehand, Eastern backhand and Continental. However, for maximum topspin to drive a low ball, the Western grip is favored by many tennis players.
Handgrip
Count the bevels on your racket handle beginning with the top bevel when your racket is perpendicular to the court. Number the bevels one through eight clockwise. For the Western one-handed backhand stroke, grip the racket with your dominant hand, placing the base knuckle of your index finger on the fifth bevel. Your remaining base knuckles should form a nearly straight line with the same bevel.
Body Placement
Position your body perpendicular to the net. Bend your knees and lean forward slightly, balancing yourself to pivot off your left foot. At the beginning of the stroke, move your right foot to position yourself for the incoming tennis ball. Using the shoulder as a pivot, drop the tennis racket toward the court and prepare to spring upward to create more power as you make contact with the tennis ball.
Swing
Drop the tennis racket down so the head is below your hand and below the incoming tennis ball. The racket head is perpendicular to the court when it makes contact with the ball. Brush the racket upward as you strike the ball while simultaneously springing your body upward from your flexed knees. The power of your body movement and the upward motion of your racket creates powerful topspin on the ball. Slide your left foot forward as you prepare for the follow-through.
Follow-Through
Complete the swing as the ball leaves the racket. Fully extend your arm and racket until they are like one long limb rotating upward as high as the 10 o'clock position before you allow the racket to drop behind your head to the 3 o'clock position. Your nondominant arm stays out of the action. Your upper body does not swivel from the waist. Body movement takes place as your left foot slides forward until it is even with your body and takes a step forward as you complete your follow-through.
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