Backhand Slice is the best move in Tennis

Del Potro was protecting his surgically repaired left wrist and therefore slicing balls defensively on the backhand with one hand, presenting a Steffi Graf-like game plan: Float the ball low and deep off the backhand, pounce when you can with a wailing forehand.

“I think it’s almost become a necessity for the top players in the men’s game to have a good slice backhand,” said Patrick McEnroe, an ESPN commentator.

While del Potro has sliced out of physical necessity, numerous top men’s players Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal and others have developed the one-handed backhand slice as a neutralizing shot that frustrates foes.

On the women’s side, Roberta Vinci put on a dazzling one-handed backhand slice display a year ago in her upset of Serena Williams in the U.S.

Federer’s domination has kept the shot afloat in the men’s game, and Djokovic and Murray have only strengthened their own backhand slices to become more multifaceted defensive players when they are stretched wide or pushed far behind the baseline.

“I’m just in awe of how del Potro has been able to come back basically on crutches when it comes to his tennis game.

As tennis has become a sport for taller athletes including Raonic, Isner and other 6-foot-somethings, a low, spin-laden shot can be even more effective, noted John McEnroe, who spent the grass-court season as an adviser on Raonic’s team.