Former world No. 1 Marcelo Rios introduced this technique and Marat Safin and Sebastien Grosjean continue the tradition today. Instead of moving their feet to get into better position on a high backhand, they choose to compensate by jumping off the court to hit the stroke. The technical or strategic advantages are questionable, but you may find that you get more explosive power into the shot or create a better angle by raising your strike zone. Most coaches prefer a less lazy brand of footwork, but it’s flashy and, on some occasions, a necessity.

When you’re on the move and the ball is going to be at your shoulders, jump off your front leg while raising your back one up. It’s virtually the same form you’d use to shoot a layup with your nondominant hand in basketball. You start your swing as you come off the court and make contact with the ball at the top of your jump. While still in the air, complete the stroke with full extension before you land back on the court and start to move for your next shot.

Article by Rick Macci, Photo By Al Bello/Getty Images – Tennis.com