What’s a Forehand vs. Backhand in Tennis?

A forehand is a shot hit with the front of your dominant hand. A backhand is hit with the back of your hand facing the net.

They’re the two main groundstrokes in tennis — every player uses both.

1. How It Works
If you're right-handed (flip it if you’re left-handed):

  • Forehand = ball comes to your right side

  • Backhand = ball comes to your left side (usually hit with one or both hands across your body)

2. Why It Matters
Some players dominate with their forehand. Others build their game around a reliable backhand. Knowing which wing is stronger can tell you a lot about a player’s style — and where opponents will try to attack.

👂 Where You’ll Hear It

“She ripped a forehand winner down the line.”
Translation: She crushed it cleanly on her strong side.

“That’s a one-handed backhand — not many players use it anymore.”
Translation: His backhand technique is more old-school, and kinda flashy.

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