Do you prefer a one-handed backhand?
This grip can be used when executing a one-handed backhand to make a flat (dry) shot along the line and to start producing some lifted spin to make your opponent play over the shoulder.
The hammer grip is a specific hand position on a specific part of the handle of a tennis racket. It can be used by players at all levels, from beginners through to advanced players and competitors. It provides manoeuvrability and precision in both small and large games. The hammer grip is used as a reference for certain tennis shots and is highly versatile. Take part in an intensive tennis course or tennis study programme at the Mouratoglou Academy to work on your racket grip.
What tennis shots can you do with this famous grip?
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Or would you prefer a two-handed backhand?
In addition, the hammer grip can be used to execute a two-handed backhand with the dominant right arm (which will have a more important action than the left arm, giving the sensation of a pillar in the execution of the shot) for a right-hander. Similarly, for a left-handed player, the hammer grip can be used to execute a two-handed shot with the dominant left arm (which will have a stronger action than the right arm, giving the feeling of a pillar in the execution of the shot).
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Like Rod Laver: volley and smash!
This grip is ideal for storming the net with backhand volleys. In addition, this grip is a reference for a powerful smash.
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Get to grips with your service
The hammer grip can be used for a flat serve.
Like Marco Cecchinato at Roland Garros: for spin!
It’s particularly useful for the sliced forehand/backhand and the slice shot, as well as for producing a sliced smash or a service with a sliced spin shot away from the court and the lines. -
Like Richard Gasquet: Play the short game well
This grip is also ideal for executing a bunt/counter-bunt, preferably on the backhand side, to break the rhythm and surprise your opponent.
Use the hammer grip to increase your game tenfold
The structure of the handle to refine your knowledge!
Place the racket standing upright on the floor, on the edge of its frame. This helps you better feel how to hold it.
The handle has 8 sides: 4 flat and 4 beveled edges.
To make the hammer grip (like holding a hammer), place your hand naturally around the handle. This grip is simple and effective, especially for serves and volleys.
Practical applications so you can take it with ease
To hold a racket properly, it all starts with the position of your hand on the handle.
An important point to locate: the base of the little finger, where the palm is slightly raised (this is called the hypothenar).
This spot helps you find the right grip, especially the hammer grip.
To find it:
- Turn your palm down, then toward yourself to see the inside of your hand.
- Follow the line from your little finger down toward your wrist.
- This area forms an angle with the base of the thumb—place it on top of the racket handle.
If it’s tricky, place the racket on the floor on its edge and grab it naturally.
With practice, you’ll get used to this grip.
What types of racket grip are there?
- Continental: Used for serves, volleys and smashes. Versatile but not very suitable for topspin.
- Semi-closed (Eastern): Ideal for flat shots with a little topspin. Good balance between control and power.
- Closed (Western): For straight shots with lots of topspin. Provides power but is less effective on fast surfaces.
- Semi-Western: Common grip for modern forehands with topspin. Powerful and adaptable.
- One-handed backhand: For flat or sliced shots.
- Two-handed backhand : Good control and power. Dominant hand for continental or eastern, non-dominant hand for backhands.
- Continental serve: Ideal for varying the spin of the serve (lift, slice, flat).
