What you can learn from this dynamic, if risky, shot. 

By Jimmy Arias

1. Feet
The open-stance forehand was a new shot when I came on tour in the 1980s, but it wasn’t long before everyone had one. The same thing has happened in recent years with the sliding forehand—sliding on hard courts, that is, not just on clay. I don’t recommend that amateurs do this, since it’s hard on your joints and tendons. But you can learn a lot from the sliding strokes of pros like Marin Cilic. The feet are the key: Cilic keeps them spread wide, which gives him a solid base. His knees are bent, as if he’s seated in a chair. If you’re stretched wide, emulate the width and sturdiness of this stance, but don’t slide or roll onto the side of your trailing foot, as Cilic does. For a rec player, it’s an ankle injury waiting to happen.

2. Midsection
It’s amazing how a guy this size—Cilic is 6-foot-6—can remain balanced on such a demanding stroke. The tendency on a shot like this is to double over at the waist, but Cilic keeps his back straight and doesn’t bend forward. You’ve probably been told to keep your head up when you’re on the move. If you can maintain an upright posture, your head will stay up and you’ll see the ball much better. Also, if you keep your upper body straight and over the center of your base, it will force your feet to get into proper position.

3. Hitting Arm
The wide forehand requires a stretched-out hitting arm. Notice, though, that Cilic’s elbow has some flex. Even in difficult positions, you have to keep your hitting arm and hand relaxed so you can generate racquet-head speed. If you’re stiff, you’ll muscle the ball and your shot won’t have any life. Stay limber, no matter how out of position you find yourself.

4. Contact Point
Cilic hits the outside of the ball to ensure that he pulls it crosscourt. This is the smartest shot from this position because it’s almost impossible to accurately hit the ball down the line when you’re stretched this wide. So, try to hit the ball early and slightly on its outside. This will give you the best chance of continuing the point.

Jimmy Arias, a former Top 5 player, is a commentator for the Tennis Channel.