Stanislas Wawrinka is renowned for one of the most powerful and devastating forehands in modern tennis. The secret to his success in this shot lies in the perfect mechanics of his body, particularly in how he utilizes his front knee. During the execution of his forehand, his knee remains bent and loaded, acting as a “compass” that directs his entire body weight toward the target. This stable position allows Wawrinka to channel all his strength into the shot, ensuring that the ball is struck with an optimal combination of power and control.
This technique not only maximizes the speed of the ball but also ensures greater accuracy. The bent front knee acts as an anchor point, maintaining the balance and orientation of the body, which is crucial for keeping the ball’s trajectory on target. Wawrinka’s commitment to maintaining this position throughout the shot is a perfect example of how a solid technical foundation can significantly enhance the quality of a stroke.
Moreover, this use of the front knee is particularly effective in situations where a lot of power needs to be generated, such as during a cross-court or down-the-line forehand. By keeping his knee bent, Wawrinka can efficiently transfer energy from his body to the racket, thus maximizing the impact of the ball. This is one of the reasons why his forehand is considered among the most feared on the ATP tour.
In conclusion, Wawrinka’s forehand is a lethal shot made possible by exemplary technique and perfect body control. The position of the front knee, bent and loaded, is a crucial component that every tennis player should observe and, if possible, emulate.
by
Max Menegale (tennis coach)