Federer’s Liquid Forehand Return

Video Credit: MarcioDub

Roger Federer seen here at the Estoril Open practicing his forehand returns from the deuce court. Note the extreme extension and paradoxically, the lack of tension given the explosiveness of the return. Federer’s game is in part epitomized by his apparent ability to create explosive movements out of simple, lithe gestures, and this ability is fundamentally rooted in his flawless technique and stroke production.

A quick note to those who are trying to draw tactical conclusions from this clip, however: this is a high-risk maneuver and is best used selectively as a surprise play when attempting to wrest control from an opponent on serve. Taking the ball early and on the rise off the service return is very, very difficult and even Federer typically chooses to take a conservative approach to the return. The take-home point is that this is one tool among many.

And of course, even if you don’t draw any conclusions from this, it’s still beautiful to watch.

A high-quality version of this clip can be found by clicking here.