Tennis skills: THE CROSS-COURT FOREHAND

The forehand is the most well-known tennis stroke, after the serve. Why? Because it's the natural choice for every player, from beginners to old hands.

Everyone has the ability to play this shot. But first thing's first: let's take a look at the 5 basics of the cross-court forehand.

THE PREPARATION

Use your off-hand to help you draw the racket back by turning your shoulders.

GETTING READY EARLY

Get ready early so that you finish your preparation no later than when the ball bounces.

It's up to you whether you use a neutral, semi-open or open stance.

THE DROP

Dropping the racket head below the level of the ball.

CONTACT POINT

In front of your body, between your shoulders and hips, with your elbow held out from your body (the more extreme your forehand grip, the further forward your contact point needs to be!).

For a cross-court forehand, the contact point needs to be in front of you.

FOLLOW-THROUGH

Your elbow should swing upwards and forwards, pulling your shoulder and your back foot with it.

There you have it! You now know absolutely everything about the cross-court forehand and how to do it correctly. All that remains is to practise until you're perfect!