SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/tennis-slice

What kind of spin does a slice shot use?

A slice puts backspin on the ball.

Start playing free

  1. Forward topspin
  2. Backspin ✔
  3. No spin at all

Why: USTA defines a slice as a shot that puts backspin on the ball, made with a high-to-low swing.

Huh, didn't know that: A drop shot also uses lots of backspin.

The dad joke
Why did the slice shot get a job at the deli? It already knew how to cut.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Backspin. USTA defines a slice as a shot that puts backspin on the ball, made with a high-to-low swing.

  1. USTA: Tennis terms and definitions www.usta.com/en/home/improve/tips-and-instruction/national/tennis-terms-definitions.html
    A shot that imparts backspin on the ball by hitting the ball with a high-to-low motion.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessFor a right-handed player, which side of the body is the forehand on?Sports & FitnessCan a tennis backhand be hit with two hands?Sports & FitnessWhen do you hit a volley in tennis?

That's stuff everyone should know.