The slice backhand has been a powerful weapon in tennis for a very long time. Whether it’s used as a defensive shot to get back into a point or as an offensive shot to charge the net, the slice is a must in any player’s arsenal. It’s also a classic and beautiful shot. However, make no mistake, without this weapon, some of the greatest tennis players of all time would not have won as many matches as they did. So, who’s got top slice backhands in the open era?

5. Roger Federer

Roger has routinely used his slice backhand to work himself into a point and set up that massive forehand. Everyone’s seen Roger go cross-court with that slice to neutralize Nadal’s ability to generate massive topspin into his backhand. The other play Federer likes to use is the slice serve return cross-court, and then rip a topspin backhand down the line!

4. Boris Becker

Here’s another player that had an amazing slice. Having a great slice is a must if you want a shot at Wimbledon. The ball stays nice and low and it allows you to charge the net or keep your opponent from attacking your groundstrokes. Becker used his slice beautifully and it’s one of the reasons he won three Wimbledon titles.

3. Pat Rafter

Rafter was one of the last serve and volley players in the Open Era. As a serve and volleyer, the slice is an integral part of getting to the net. Rafter chipped and charged his way to two US Open titles, setting himself up for easy volley put aways with his extraordinary slice.

2. Stefan Edberg

Stefan makes it to number 2 simply because he had the most beautiful looking slice out of the bunch. Stefan’s game as a whole was a picture of elegance. Also, from an effectiveness perspective, it wasn’t too shabby. Like Rafter, Stefan used his slice approach in deadly fashion, helping him capture six Grand Slams, which include

1. John McEnroe

Feel was the name of the game for Johnny Mac, and his slice backhand was no different. He had such a tremendous feel for the ball, that he was able to routinely take his slice backhand on the rise. He would then be able to take time away from the opponent and go cross-court or down the line. When he wasn’t taking the ball on the rise with his slice, he was charging the net.

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