What forehand grip do most pros use?

Most use a semi-western grip, with some closer to eastern and a few, like Rafael Nadal, closer to western. Semi-western balances topspin, power and the ability to handle high balls.

How do I find the semi-western grip?

Start from an eastern grip, as if shaking hands with the handle, then rotate your hand slightly clockwise (for right-handers) so the base knuckle of your index finger sits on the next bevel down.

Best Forehand Grip: Eastern vs Semi-Western vs Western

4 video lessons

Eastern, semi-western or western, and which suits you.

Quick answer & tips ▾

The eastern grip (palm roughly behind the handle) is easy to learn and good for flatter hitting and low balls. The semi-western grip turns the hand a little further under the handle; it is the most common grip on tour because it handles high balls and makes topspin easy. The full western grip produces heavy topspin but struggles with low, skidding balls.

Most players do well with an eastern or semi-western grip. Pick one, learn it properly, and only change if your contact point or ball flight keeps fighting it.

Key tips

Beginners: start with eastern or semi-western.
More topspin and high balls favor semi-western.
Lots of low, fast courts favor eastern.
Your contact point moves further forward as the grip turns more western.

FAQ

What forehand grip do most pros use?: Most use a semi-western grip, with some closer to eastern and a few, like Rafael Nadal, closer to western. Semi-western balances topspin, power and the ability to handle high balls.
How do I find the semi-western grip?: Start from an eastern grip, as if shaking hands with the handle, then rotate your hand slightly clockwise (for right-handers) so the base knuckle of your index finger sits on the next bevel down.