This is the sixth article in a series of seven
Inevitably you will encounter a player who completely frustrates you and no matter what you try, you keep failing to come up with a winning strategy.
Learn to identify your opponent’s particular style, strengths and weaknesses, and their pattern of play, and how to exploit these to your advantage.
As well, inform yourself regarding your own style of play to develop the best strategy to protect your weaknesses.
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6. The Slicer (Hacker)
The Slicer (Hacker) differs from the pusher in that they wreak havoc using underspin. Often their style of play tends to be somewhat unorthodox. However, don’t let this fool you. If you fall into their game, they will eventually beat you. Just as with the no pace hitter, you need to find a way to win points without losing your cool. Prepare yourself for a long drawn out battle. The slicer will slice every shot they hit, forehand, backhand, even their serve.
Strategy Against the Slicer (Hacker)
Get to the Net as Soon as Possible – take advantage of the fact that slice shots tend to float more, and approach the net any chance you get. Serve and volley whenever possible to take advantage of any floaters on the return. Don’t give this type of player any power to use against you. Your best recourse is to approach the net often and put their floaters away. If in doubt, approach the net. To keep them pinned back and keep the ball away from their ideal strike zone, hit the ball high and with topspin. A high and deep shot to their backhand will make it difficult for them to answer back.
Anticipate The Low Bounce Because slice shots tend to stay low to the ground and not have much bounce, you need to hit the ball early. Move closer to where the ball is bouncing to set up. Expect the ball to bounce low - keep your feet moving so that you can make any necessary last minute adjustments. Using an open stance in this situation can be helpful for adjusting to the ball. Playing the baseline against a slicer is frustrating, so try to set up for the volley as soon as possible.
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