The main diff betn Rafa and fed is: Fed is classy and nadal is hard working giving his soul in every point! which obviously makes ppl who knows wat hard work and dedication means, loves Rafa....!
this, my friends, is talent. a lot more then just mental and physical strength. you have got to be a federer crybaby fan deeply depressed for having felt so much federer's defeats to nadal ( nadal leads the head to head 14-7 ) in order to repeat the same old lie that nadal is not talented or that all he has is mental and physical strength. this video is just one of the many proofs out there that shows how great and talented nadal is. VAMOS, RAFAAAA! thanks for posting such a great video!
--Third, his power comes from a violent uncoiling and very complex kinetic chain which can be briefly resumed as his legs pushes his hips which forces his truck around; later, his arm follows, completing the 180degrees turn. The biceps are pointless - actually, his arm is fully extended and when he closes it, his stroke is actually done.
--Fourth, it's not an actual wrist flick, it's a consequence of him letting it loose - it's not a conscious movement, although he does it on purpose.
From where to start to correct the logical fallacies and mistakes in this video?
--First, Nadal's forehand neither any other can accelerate due to top spin; past a certain kinetic energy level, it makes the ball bounce higher and not forward.
--Second, Nadal uses more than often what is called a reverse-forehand - this is the shot which finishes as a cowboy's lasso over his head. But this is required when the path is dramatically upward; running forehand, low balls and very high balls.
--Third, his power comes from a violent uncoiling and very complex kinetic chain which can be briefly resumed as his legs pushes his hips which forces his truck around; later, his arm follows, completing the 180degrees turn. The biceps are pointless - actually, his arm is fully extended and when he closes it, his stroke is actually done.
--Fourth, it's not an actual wrist flick, it's a consequence of him letting it loose - it's not a conscious movement, although he does it on purpose.
It is actually great that we have many slow motion videos around the web, learners can know how the pros are actually hitting a ball.Even you don't have a coach, it is possible to learn them fully on the web, about the grips, footwork etc.What they need to do is just get a racket and smack some balls, and take your time.
Honestly none is really good, but the main issue is that its not consistent, I feel a lot of discomfort with the grip and after 10 times my wrist is already in pain
What I don't like about videos like this one is that it attempts to give the impression that people can learn to hit forehand like the profetional athlete.
I just think it is unrealistic neither do I believe that those athletes are awere on how are the hitting the ball or using the racket.
I don't know if express what I want to say.
I just think some people are better than others in talents that they have and some are just plain gifted a what they do.
the thing is, if you are analytical enough and take your time learning, it is actually possible to learn to hit a ball like a pro. personally, i was trained for 3 years on how to hit, but, I still believe some people can learn themselves.
Who would win in a fight between Roddick, Fed, and Rafa. I would be tied between Roddick and Rafa. Fed would get knocked out in the first 10 seconds lol
actually he had improved a lot his forehand. When he used to finish over his heads every single forehand he was a pretty defensive player with few aggresive shots. Nowadays he has improved his game by finishing the forehand over his shoulder which makes the ball travel faster. Do not copy his forehand cus it's not a good forehand at all, it's a defensive forehand. He had to changed it due to physical reasons.
Power definitely comes more from the core and proper technique, but being strong certainly doesn't hurt. It's what allows him to hit that hard even when he's stretched out. Not many people can do that because they don't have Nadal's brute strength.
Nadal may Not play like an orginal tennis player but he made tennis more exiting. he camed with a new style fighting all points doing incredible points defending, for example federe serves play 2 balls and then a strong shoot to the corner and point for him. ofc that how it should be to win. But nadals style have made the Fans more entretainment.
I agree, rafa bring´s a new flavor to the game, he´s the toughest, most tenacious competitor out there today and he never gives up on himself, he´s an exciting
emotional player, with an intense competitive drive..
Nadal is the most exciting tennis player I have ever seen play tennis. He is awesome! Love his shots and power. He is pure box office!. Love how he plays every point and never gives up. His rallies are out of this world!
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I dont agree. He doesnt know how to play an entertaining tennis. HIs rallies wears him out... Feel boring to watch Nadal plays. He will never improve.
i think in the "power" section, nadals bisceps help him generate that topspin, he use his hips, thighs, shoulder rotation to get all that power which is called "torque"
GTM... Nadal did not break his arm. Toni Nadal thought that by switching to his left hand it would not only give a competative edge, but his back hand would be his comfort shot; being right handed.
Really good video. Helped me alot. I must try this hit tomorrow in my training. I am also left-handed like Rafa so it shoulndn't be a big problem to spin the ball but to get power in the hit is dificult. The footwork is normal for a trained tenisplayer, you just need to focus on your body position to hit the ball right.
Yeah, Nadal is a very exciting player to watch, but the way he contorts his knees to generate that extra topspin is what's killing him. He's going to have to fundamentally change his game if he wants to play past 26.
Another thing is that Nadal has to be more selective with the tournaments he should play. When he lost to Soderling at Roland Garros, he had already played half the amount of matches he played at that point last year. He's good enough that he should focus on Grand Slams.
can also be genetics too' many pros develop knee/hip/back problems from playing this sport sooo long. some start as early as 4!! .. What nadal is starting to do is even out his swing, if you watch his up to date fh vids and practice. im thinkin he might pull a agassi eventually and bulk up even more/plow thru the ball to compensate for lack of rotation from knees.
Look the main reason why he gets so much topspin on his shot is because he has such a western grip that pretty much no1 uses part from him 2 get maximum spin. and he rotates his racket in a very quick action but every1 says his follow through isnt proper, it is because he follows through but then he goes over his head
Pretty good, ignore cuarteto and tudorbradescu, they should get some lives and tudor should realise nadal is no.1, not federer. p.s. i actually want federer to be no.1 again but I realise nadal is better.
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Nadal can suck my balls! Personally I have never hated anyone so much without actually knowing them. His game is 50% mind, 45% athletisism and 5% talent(being generous)
Interesting... Now I hate you more than you could ever hate Nadal, only because you don't know shit about tennis and post here just to say something. How can you say he's not talented? Or, what the fuck do you understand by "talent"? And what the fuck should he do if he can play smart? Should he wait for guys like you to understand what he's trying to do? He's the most ambitious guy I've ever seen and whatever you say can't change that.
personally I think you know more about sucking balls than tennis, please give a breake, anyone but federer has the adaptability of nadal in every single aspect of the game, the surface the climatic conditions the oponent, his own game, you never gonna see him trying to do a spectacular thing when he is in a bad day, I think that you think that talent means rip every single forehand like fernando gonzales no matter how many balls lands in. or maybe have a beatiful style like henman wining nothing
well, I am a Roger-Fan. But honestly, Rafa, being the biggest fighter of all time, besides Muster, he DOES have tons of talent. He anticipates very well and is constantly improving his game. And: He is not a natural lefty. Possibly this fact and his unorthodox forehand spin makes his play look a bit akward for those who prefer the easy-classical Fed-Style. Federer is best of nature-talent, Nadal is best of learned-talent.
I guess you're right, talent can be both born with and learned upon. Nadal was a true righty, told to play with his left to cause confusion on opponent.
I was taught the old-fashioned way.I have an eastern grip.But,I'm trying to develop at least a semi-western like Agassi or Lendl.Eastern is great for low-bouncing surfaces like grass.But if the ball is above your head,it's a big problem.Rafa's forehand is one of the best in the game.Unorthodox?Yes.But that forehand has helped him win 4 titles at Roland Garros and counting.
I know this video is about the teaching of his forehand. But his style is a natural ability and anyone who tries to copy it may not be ass successful or effective. He is a unique player
to an extent ur right but there's nothing wrong with trying to incorporate some of Rafa's technique into your own game. I am by no means good at tennis but emulating my game off of Rafa's I now generate enough spin where my ball accelerates forward off of the bounce.
em no, because his hand is very strong and i have the same type of forehand and it just strengthens my hand and arm, in the beginning it hurt me a little but when i developed it it gives me no problem, he may be injured in other ways, but not because of his wrist action´.
The western grip is usually adopted by juniors who generally play with balls bouncing above their heads e.g. clay. When I started playing tennis, I was taught to use the eastern forehand (we played on clay). I ended up using the western forehand after a year or so. You learn it pretty much subconsciously in my opinion. Right now, I find it really hard to use eastern LOL.
so you dont strain the wrist or anything?since i use a semi-western im gunna try out a full western. Ive tested it out b4 and gotten a few lucky good shots with an incredible amount of topspin.
If you use the western grip, of course at first you gotta get used to it. In the western grip, the wrist is laid back so it's gonna take a lot of effort from your wrist. If you use a western forehand, strengthen your wrist so you won't strain it. I've been using western for 5 years now so my wrist never gets strained LOL.
just for the heck of it...notice Rafa wraps white tape around his fingers...maybe it prevents him from sliding the racket during forehand? (considering his western grip)...
Semi-western is the best grip for 80% of the players. Look, Agassi, Sampras, Federer, Lendl, etc. use semi-western. Western is very hard to execute. One has to have excellent timing to execute. Eastern is OK for the "old" fast courts but is not adaptable to today's courts and racquets.
semi I think is the easiest to learn and is used by most players but, Pete held the racquet with an Eastern and Roger used Eastern on most of his shots^_^
Maybe we cant compare them, but nadals forehand destroys federer always thanks to his amazing topspin. And Federers forehand is only another shot against Rafa.
federer is 2nd to nadal in every aspect.. look at rankings. (but i have to admit federer has incredible footwork, evefrything else i like nadal better in)
that's kinda dumb. nadal's racquet was designed for his playing style. unless u play like nadal, don't buy a professional's racquet just cos u idolize him.
Nadal has improved his forehand so that it becomes an offensive weapon. Federer forehand on the other hand, used to be offensive but now it turns defensive
Brilliant video. Nadal's my favourite player and ive always been interested in the technical side of his forehand. I might try to hit my forehand shots like this :).
You forgot to note that anyone who trys to hit that much spin like nadal could end up damaging their shoulder. Thats why the average person can't hit as much spin as Nadal.
Rafa's serve used to be poor but today is another weapon; he scores a lot of points with his first and second serve. He's only 22 & still imporving; if he improves his serve further he is going to be the most intimidating tennis player in the world!
Nadal produces a mega-spin! It's 5000 rpm compare to the best by all other players wich doesn't excede 2000-2500 rpm. His forehand's the most powerful weapon in tennis today; it's intimidating. Added to his mobility, court covarage, back-hand, etc, from the baseline Nadal's a rock; he's inpenetrable! He can outlast anyone in the longest & hardest rallies; if a player engages in long points with Nadal they'll loose! He's the best. :D
Oh please. "His forehand's the most powerful weapon in tennis today". Please try not to use drugs before watching tennis. It may affect your judgemental skills.
The topspin is indeed phenomenal but that doesnt makes his forehand a killer. It's his physique and toughness that made him #1, unlike federer who just has a bit more technique. Its nadals' first year as number 1 and already the injuries are starting to show !! He plays every ball like a match ball. Kudos to Nadal for his fighting spirit
I couldn't have said it better myself. All credit to Nadal for his fighting spirit, even though he's also a very skilled player. I don't think his legs will last for long, regarding his playing style. I think 2009 will be a very intense year with many brilliant battles.
Biceps flex when you bend your elbow. Triceps flex when you straighten. In tennis, the major muscle groups used are the legs, abs, back and arm muscles. You use more of your biceps when you do a forehand and more of your triceps when you do a backhand.
thats true,.. but u don't need 10kg of muscles in ur arms to hit hard,.. u need a perfect swing! , i bet federer can hit faster forehand than nadal, eventhough nadal has 4times federer's hand..
yeah... federer's forehand is faster... but that's because he hits flatter than nadal... nadal hits with heavy topspin so the air resistence slows it down and concentrates the energy into the court. nadal's forehand faster than fed's? they dont have the same stroke mechanics... so... we'll never know... :)
Raquet speed is the easies way to create power biceps and triceps have very little to do with power though at the professional level it may make that little bit of difference. I'm 320th in the itf rankings I know what i'm on about.
It gives an accurate description of Nadals game but it doesnt come close to teaching you how to do those moves.Worth watching if you want to know how good Nadals forehand really is
Exactly kingkerwick, the only way is to see most of his matches and listen to the experts discuss his tennis. I recommend the best: McEnroe, Becker and Borg. I like them because like Rafa and Fed they were also big champions and know what is what in tennis!!
it's easy to make small amount of mistakes when u topspin 10m over the net,.. and his footwork isn't half as good as federer's , it's just that he tries to get any ball,.. and federer's kinda lazy for that ^^its funny to watch nadal'z moves slowmo,.. no point in that..
no no no,he's right,having a strong biceps helps a lot in the reverse finishing forehand,in the backhand it's the triceps that work(on his left arm) but to have that huge forehand it's good to have a good biceps like Rafa.of course the other muscles are important and even more important,it's the tecnic
bullshit about the biceps, we are tired of listening the same rubbish! Notbody in the whole world is a champ in tennis because of muscles. Federer No1 for years has been there because of skill. Borg (very much like Rafa) had similar strengh but did not have Rafa's body. Tsonga has muscles but litle else. It is the tennis that brings the best to the top no their muscles!! Enough bull about Rafa's biceps!! :\
Do you guys even know how insanely messed up the grip that nadal uses to put that much topspin? My coach said i hit like nadal so he gave me his grip and its sooooooo western you CAN'T hit a flat ball no matter what you try!
yeah biceps and triceps have little or nothing to do with tennis it is all the rotation of the body,sure look at federer theres not a pick on him.yet he has one of the biggest and and the best forehand in the game.
nadal is so effective because yes he puts alot of topspin on the ball but he opens his body up to the ball with full extension.and if he is sort of closed up alittle more, he lunges towards the ball then straightens himself during contact.
Just wanted to let you know Biceps dont have anything to do with tennis, Biceps are for pulling, its all about the tricep so its really because he has a strong tricep why he can put alot of push behind the ball
Triff51, if you want to hit high balls, simply jump. I suggest looking at federer, its the exact same thing except dont brush up with your racquet as much, just move it forward and follow through. THis will ensure great topsin, slices are ok but i prefer to continuously attack the oppenent. Your choice i guess.
im a lefty also so i put alot of spin especially topspin.. i cant quite get the rafa forehand but almost and it doesnt work for me its just not effective enough
obviously you need a bigger loop in the shot...the lower the ball is the less of a loop you need in the shot after the racquet has reached past the hips...you'll need to just practice that shot if you can i know its hard how the hell can u get someone to consistently hit you high forehands but i just always try to hit it flat...look up "federer flat forehands" and thats what i try to do
i use a full western grip so high balls are no prob for me. maybe your grip is eastern or continental that's why u have problems cus with a continental grip, its really hard to close the racquet face to bring the ball down
actually he can really rip forehands. his shots consistently stay on pace with his opponents shots plus they have the heavy spin which makes them move a little faster after impact with the ground. it isnt uncommon for his forehands to be clocked in the 90's.
Nice breakdown of his shot, but could have used some better examples. In the videos you used, Nadal was a bit off balance so it didnt really give a good look at the mechanics of his forehand.
The main diff betn Rafa and fed is: Fed is classy and nadal is hard working giving his soul in every point! which obviously makes ppl who knows wat hard work and dedication means, loves Rafa....!
aki31286 7 months ago
i love how in slow motion the ball spins faster than my shots full speed
ilovedalejrhms88 8 months ago
You need to be as doped as Nadal to hit that forehand. Otherwise, try Roger's, it's easier and classier.
Fhound 9 months ago
Rafa is so classy. lovely. true king. love Rafa Nadal
federerbestcIass 1 year ago
He has magnificant powerful hits with amazing spin, but he does not have the style and technique of someone like Federer.
Nonbelieverification 1 year ago
@Nonbelieverification amen
01414271964 1 year ago
@Nonbelieverification Yes, that's why NAdal is N#1 in the world and Federer 3rd.
Nagrandt 8 months ago
@Nagrandt no, thats why federer is the best ever
hajg1554 8 months ago
around 0:47 he hits himself LOol with the racket
zio7rich 1 year ago
there really isnt anything to do with the wrist
like federer's swing (like nadal's) is a circle all they do is bend their legs allowing them to get under the ball
SupremeStewy 1 year ago
this, my friends, is talent. a lot more then just mental and physical strength. you have got to be a federer crybaby fan deeply depressed for having felt so much federer's defeats to nadal ( nadal leads the head to head 14-7 ) in order to repeat the same old lie that nadal is not talented or that all he has is mental and physical strength. this video is just one of the many proofs out there that shows how great and talented nadal is. VAMOS, RAFAAAA! thanks for posting such a great video!
limafilho27 1 year ago
--Third, his power comes from a violent uncoiling and very complex kinetic chain which can be briefly resumed as his legs pushes his hips which forces his truck around; later, his arm follows, completing the 180degrees turn. The biceps are pointless - actually, his arm is fully extended and when he closes it, his stroke is actually done.
--Fourth, it's not an actual wrist flick, it's a consequence of him letting it loose - it's not a conscious movement, although he does it on purpose.
terryschutte 1 year ago
Nadal s fucking awesome, but i wont say hes the most exciting player in the world, he takes too long to serve
mling1985 1 year ago
analysis is nonsense!!! nadal and fedsy brilliant players and human beings!!
thefrogmaster2 1 year ago
From where to start to correct the logical fallacies and mistakes in this video?
--First, Nadal's forehand neither any other can accelerate due to top spin; past a certain kinetic energy level, it makes the ball bounce higher and not forward.
--Second, Nadal uses more than often what is called a reverse-forehand - this is the shot which finishes as a cowboy's lasso over his head. But this is required when the path is dramatically upward; running forehand, low balls and very high balls.
GueorguiJoukov 1 year ago
--Third, his power comes from a violent uncoiling and very complex kinetic chain which can be briefly resumed as his legs pushes his hips which forces his truck around; later, his arm follows, completing the 180degrees turn. The biceps are pointless - actually, his arm is fully extended and when he closes it, his stroke is actually done.
--Fourth, it's not an actual wrist flick, it's a consequence of him letting it loose - it's not a conscious movement, although he does it on purpose.
GueorguiJoukov 1 year ago
nice vid =) i have nadals racket it rocks
terryschutte 1 year ago
It is actually great that we have many slow motion videos around the web, learners can know how the pros are actually hitting a ball.Even you don't have a coach, it is possible to learn them fully on the web, about the grips, footwork etc.What they need to do is just get a racket and smack some balls, and take your time.
lokitkit 1 year ago
True, however I didnt find a good "serve teaching" video out there, its pretty sad since that my tennis level is really high but my serve is crap :(
if anyone know a good one then feel free to post it here....maybe its just because serve is more individual movment ?
damnverificationcode 1 year ago
Me too here, having nice techniques on other side but not the serve, what's your problem?
I have a smooth motion but i find it difficult to make constant toss.
lokitkit 1 year ago
Honestly none is really good, but the main issue is that its not consistent, I feel a lot of discomfort with the grip and after 10 times my wrist is already in pain
damnverificationcode 1 year ago
What I don't like about videos like this one is that it attempts to give the impression that people can learn to hit forehand like the profetional athlete.
I just think it is unrealistic neither do I believe that those athletes are awere on how are the hitting the ball or using the racket.
I don't know if express what I want to say.
I just think some people are better than others in talents that they have and some are just plain gifted a what they do.
elijah7k 2 years ago
the thing is, if you are analytical enough and take your time learning, it is actually possible to learn to hit a ball like a pro. personally, i was trained for 3 years on how to hit, but, I still believe some people can learn themselves.
shh90 2 years ago
Who would win in a fight between Roddick, Fed, and Rafa. I would be tied between Roddick and Rafa. Fed would get knocked out in the first 10 seconds lol
tehnotaznman 2 years ago
the forehand over his hand wont give him extra power, and he will only use it when he has minimum amount of time
Mrbusterfish 2 years ago
That is true indeed :)
marvinsmit1 2 years ago
actually he had improved a lot his forehand. When he used to finish over his heads every single forehand he was a pretty defensive player with few aggresive shots. Nowadays he has improved his game by finishing the forehand over his shoulder which makes the ball travel faster. Do not copy his forehand cus it's not a good forehand at all, it's a defensive forehand. He had to changed it due to physical reasons.
popeye135 2 years ago
this is fucking awsome i love rafa
his footwork is the best
yarinovad 2 years ago
great video !
979DEJAN 2 years ago
You know what's funny? Nadal is right handed in normal life
lagh 2 years ago 19
normal life?
Chris414141 2 years ago
@lagh Its not that funny. Im right handed for everything except holding pens.
Kiasko 1 year ago
@Kiasko Gay
01414271964 1 year ago
@lagh haha total opposite of Lebron James he is left handed but shoots mostly at his right..
moimasiclat 1 year ago
Comment removed
DazzleLucky 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@DazzleLucky you're wrong. Watch this video
/watch?v=nge5tuWnMk4
lagh 1 year ago
@lagh then you should change to left like nadal cuz maybe left hand is superior
DazzleLucky 1 year ago
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@lagh he is a lab tennis player :) no talent only tecnology
TheDrunkGuineaPig1 8 months ago
I lke the video but the power doesn't come from nadal biceps. Biceps helps more for the spin and abs are for the power
icardurionne 2 years ago
Power definitely comes more from the core and proper technique, but being strong certainly doesn't hurt. It's what allows him to hit that hard even when he's stretched out. Not many people can do that because they don't have Nadal's brute strength.
ShadeXH 2 years ago
you can't play like nadal because he's fucking hench
jazzswingsoulblues 2 years ago
He's what?
Polloparmesano 2 years ago
Nadal may Not play like an orginal tennis player but he made tennis more exiting. he camed with a new style fighting all points doing incredible points defending, for example federe serves play 2 balls and then a strong shoot to the corner and point for him. ofc that how it should be to win. But nadals style have made the Fans more entretainment.
DonChilenito 2 years ago
I agree, rafa bring´s a new flavor to the game, he´s the toughest, most tenacious competitor out there today and he never gives up on himself, he´s an exciting
emotional player, with an intense competitive drive..
reefric 2 years ago
i disagree nadal is quite the entertainer
xxw00tagexx 2 years ago
Nadal is the most exciting tennis player I have ever seen play tennis. He is awesome! Love his shots and power. He is pure box office!. Love how he plays every point and never gives up. His rallies are out of this world!
TWIX68 2 years ago 4
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I dont agree. He doesnt know how to play an entertaining tennis. HIs rallies wears him out... Feel boring to watch Nadal plays. He will never improve.
korndurst2002 2 years ago
People should not try to copy Nadal's play style. They will hurt themsevles like I did after a while.
Hexelsfayt 2 years ago
i think in the "power" section, nadals bisceps help him generate that topspin, he use his hips, thighs, shoulder rotation to get all that power which is called "torque"
leengsta94 2 years ago
GTM... Nadal did not break his arm. Toni Nadal thought that by switching to his left hand it would not only give a competative edge, but his back hand would be his comfort shot; being right handed.
srvfan04 2 years ago
omg like the guy who posted this video knows the secret to how Nadal is so good. Come on buddy -_-
okayGoon333 2 years ago
Nadal biceps....
Blancasalirrosas 2 years ago
listen to all you freaks, im going to try this out. hes nadal ffs, be original and use your own stlye instead of copying a pro sad little shits
mattyADTR 2 years ago
is it me or does everyone use Eye Of The Tiger for videos of nadal...? its gettin a bit repetitive tbh
wat870 2 years ago
nadal is my favourite player... nice video!!
i like the topspin forehand of nadal i'ts a great shot!!! vamos rafa!!!!
svenno95 2 years ago
the person who made the commentary on this is a moron.
thereisnoel 2 years ago
coming back august 10, for roger's cup w00t.
chao5cuber 2 years ago
amazin nadal is phenomenal
tomot4ever 2 years ago
Really good video. Helped me alot. I must try this hit tomorrow in my training. I am also left-handed like Rafa so it shoulndn't be a big problem to spin the ball but to get power in the hit is dificult. The footwork is normal for a trained tenisplayer, you just need to focus on your body position to hit the ball right.
b0b0boy 2 years ago
FEDERER IS BEST
krvvaviot17 2 years ago
0:46 : the reason why you will not see Nadal anymore.
orelero 2 years ago
Why not? his knees are injured or something? Sorry, I don't understand what you mean.
phillipeeno2 2 years ago
I said that cause 0:42 is the moment when you can clearly see the torsion induced in his knees by the top spin.
Extremely bad for the joints ;-) That's why no other player uses it as much as Nadal does.
orelero 2 years ago
He has tendonitis in both of his knees. That's why he's not at Wimbledon right now.
SoftBank47 2 years ago
oh, alright. Ha, thanks for answering. It's too bad we wont see a final like last year. We'll just have to wait for next year :)
phillipeeno2 2 years ago
Yeah, Nadal is a very exciting player to watch, but the way he contorts his knees to generate that extra topspin is what's killing him. He's going to have to fundamentally change his game if he wants to play past 26.
Another thing is that Nadal has to be more selective with the tournaments he should play. When he lost to Soderling at Roland Garros, he had already played half the amount of matches he played at that point last year. He's good enough that he should focus on Grand Slams.
SoftBank47 2 years ago
He will be back, not as good as he was. But he'll be back.
sup3rh1k 2 years ago
can also be genetics too' many pros develop knee/hip/back problems from playing this sport sooo long. some start as early as 4!! .. What nadal is starting to do is even out his swing, if you watch his up to date fh vids and practice. im thinkin he might pull a agassi eventually and bulk up even more/plow thru the ball to compensate for lack of rotation from knees.
exitingforward 2 years ago
"some start as early as 4!! "
This sucks lol.
Can you point me to some of these vids with such a forehand ? If you have one in mind.
I think it's very interesting to see a player changing his way of hitting balls etc.
Cheers mate.
orelero 2 years ago
nice vid.. nice song^^
nice FOREHAND obviously!
ciaonegra 2 years ago
thanks
D3M0N29 2 years ago
It's amazing how people so underestimate how stil Nadal's arm is before contact. One is reminded of change of velocity as the key component of force.
Drprofsirtran 2 years ago
yeah, potential energy transmitted into kinetic energy, which is what puts force on the ball
Leziii 2 years ago
Look the main reason why he gets so much topspin on his shot is because he has such a western grip that pretty much no1 uses part from him 2 get maximum spin. and he rotates his racket in a very quick action but every1 says his follow through isnt proper, it is because he follows through but then he goes over his head
sullmister 2 years ago
hey guy who made the video do you play tennis? I have a babalot racquet and head and fischer dunlop and gamma
slipstream245 2 years ago
Semi-western should be taught 80% of the time. Western is very difficult to control. It takes a unique talent like Rafa to pull it off.
mrbobevans 2 years ago
of course it does, and thats why i use it
dasdaka 2 years ago
I wouldn't call it unique. Most people can pull of a western with proper training, but not to the same standard as Nadal.
subtlenight 2 years ago
Pretty good, ignore cuarteto and tudorbradescu, they should get some lives and tudor should realise nadal is no.1, not federer. p.s. i actually want federer to be no.1 again but I realise nadal is better.
galbat0rixx 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Nadal can suck my balls! Personally I have never hated anyone so much without actually knowing them. His game is 50% mind, 45% athletisism and 5% talent(being generous)
pdmmdp 2 years ago
Interesting... Now I hate you more than you could ever hate Nadal, only because you don't know shit about tennis and post here just to say something. How can you say he's not talented? Or, what the fuck do you understand by "talent"? And what the fuck should he do if he can play smart? Should he wait for guys like you to understand what he's trying to do? He's the most ambitious guy I've ever seen and whatever you say can't change that.
tudorbradescu1991 2 years ago 2
personally I think you know more about sucking balls than tennis, please give a breake, anyone but federer has the adaptability of nadal in every single aspect of the game, the surface the climatic conditions the oponent, his own game, you never gonna see him trying to do a spectacular thing when he is in a bad day, I think that you think that talent means rip every single forehand like fernando gonzales no matter how many balls lands in. or maybe have a beatiful style like henman wining nothing
cuarteto6x8 2 years ago
well, I am a Roger-Fan. But honestly, Rafa, being the biggest fighter of all time, besides Muster, he DOES have tons of talent. He anticipates very well and is constantly improving his game. And: He is not a natural lefty. Possibly this fact and his unorthodox forehand spin makes his play look a bit akward for those who prefer the easy-classical Fed-Style. Federer is best of nature-talent, Nadal is best of learned-talent.
ulizinho 2 years ago
I guess you're right, talent can be both born with and learned upon. Nadal was a true righty, told to play with his left to cause confusion on opponent.
sup3rh1k 2 years ago
Actually he broke his right arm and his uncle didn't want him falling behind, so he made him switch to his left hand
GtM1321 2 years ago
Ah I see.
Well it paid off for him in the end didn't it?
sup3rh1k 2 years ago
I was taught the old-fashioned way.I have an eastern grip.But,I'm trying to develop at least a semi-western like Agassi or Lendl.Eastern is great for low-bouncing surfaces like grass.But if the ball is above your head,it's a big problem.Rafa's forehand is one of the best in the game.Unorthodox?Yes.But that forehand has helped him win 4 titles at Roland Garros and counting.
clovesmen 2 years ago 2
His elbow comes out a lot when he makes contact, which is incorrect. but heck, I would take that forehand anyday.
yensterrr 2 years ago
I know this video is about the teaching of his forehand. But his style is a natural ability and anyone who tries to copy it may not be ass successful or effective. He is a unique player
jraybay 2 years ago 4
Comment removed
DLegasy 2 years ago
to an extent ur right but there's nothing wrong with trying to incorporate some of Rafa's technique into your own game. I am by no means good at tennis but emulating my game off of Rafa's I now generate enough spin where my ball accelerates forward off of the bounce.
DLegasy 2 years ago
this forehand is very easy to do..
but it's hard to hit it that good as nadal do it
seidl01 2 years ago
he uses the wrong foot to step forward with when he hits a forehand, at least he does in this video
bogfrog93 2 years ago
does it matter to him
he wins alot though
egghead428 2 years ago
its called open stance
its perfect
open stance is very useful for quick recoveries and can cover great lengths
closed stance generates more power but is more effective on short balls
nadal is stepping with the right foot. dont criticize the pros
BboydnL 2 years ago
he is not gonna last long with such wrist wearing forehand action......
hihihibadbad 2 years ago
em no, because his hand is very strong and i have the same type of forehand and it just strengthens my hand and arm, in the beginning it hurt me a little but when i developed it it gives me no problem, he may be injured in other ways, but not because of his wrist action´.
TennisCube 2 years ago
i tried western grip; its pretty hard, i couldnt control the ball as well.
npmshorty 2 years ago
yeah, i dont use western grip either =)
TennisCube 2 years ago
The western grip is usually adopted by juniors who generally play with balls bouncing above their heads e.g. clay. When I started playing tennis, I was taught to use the eastern forehand (we played on clay). I ended up using the western forehand after a year or so. You learn it pretty much subconsciously in my opinion. Right now, I find it really hard to use eastern LOL.
Babolat3216 2 years ago
so you dont strain the wrist or anything?since i use a semi-western im gunna try out a full western. Ive tested it out b4 and gotten a few lucky good shots with an incredible amount of topspin.
npmshorty 2 years ago
If you use the western grip, of course at first you gotta get used to it. In the western grip, the wrist is laid back so it's gonna take a lot of effort from your wrist. If you use a western forehand, strengthen your wrist so you won't strain it. I've been using western for 5 years now so my wrist never gets strained LOL.
Babolat3216 2 years ago
just for the heck of it...notice Rafa wraps white tape around his fingers...maybe it prevents him from sliding the racket during forehand? (considering his western grip)...
juansa74 2 years ago
I've been looking for that a long time... Can't find it here in the Philippines. What is it called anyway?
Babolat3216 2 years ago
athletic tape?
ToshioSanx3 2 years ago
Semi-western is the best grip for 80% of the players. Look, Agassi, Sampras, Federer, Lendl, etc. use semi-western. Western is very hard to execute. One has to have excellent timing to execute. Eastern is OK for the "old" fast courts but is not adaptable to today's courts and racquets.
mrbobevans 2 years ago
But I do use Western. I depend A LOT on topspin. Love the effects on clay.
Babolat3216 2 years ago
semi I think is the easiest to learn and is used by most players but, Pete held the racquet with an Eastern and Roger used Eastern on most of his shots^_^
tolendoi123 2 years ago
oh please, just because you dont know how to use it,
dasdaka 2 years ago
I feel most comfortable with an Eastern, so that's what I use, although as a beginner, I'm experimenting with a Western and Semi-Western.
SoftBank47 2 years ago
choose the grip u think is best
dasdaka 2 years ago
take western, it offers the most spin and is what nadal uses
GtM1321 2 years ago
thanks, that was a very good tutorial, that had some helpful tips which i'll use
camjammel 2 years ago
Maybe we cant compare them, but nadals forehand destroys federer always thanks to his amazing topspin. And Federers forehand is only another shot against Rafa.
Real9Champions 3 years ago
cant compare it with federer's forehand
it will take the spanish ages to get to federer's level of forehand :)
nobodyrulz08 3 years ago
federer is 2nd to nadal in every aspect.. look at rankings. (but i have to admit federer has incredible footwork, evefrything else i like nadal better in)
imadesiboy1993 2 years ago
federer's getting old.
other than that, federer in my opinion would be better because he's cleaner, moves better and has great placement
and what i mean by movement, i mean by flow and footwork, not speed. therefore, federer maintains a high endurance level. too bad hes just too old
BboydnL 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Nadal just won the Australian Open, beating Federer the wussy again.
oplilium 3 years ago
you explained each segment very well ^_^
bogfrog93 3 years ago
i agree with lonerkia
kusta345 3 years ago
yay i just got nadals exact same racquet
rohannpillay 3 years ago
that's kinda dumb. nadal's racquet was designed for his playing style. unless u play like nadal, don't buy a professional's racquet just cos u idolize him.
lonerkia 3 years ago
Nadal has improved his forehand so that it becomes an offensive weapon. Federer forehand on the other hand, used to be offensive but now it turns defensive
tennis101bboy 3 years ago
Brilliant video. Nadal's my favourite player and ive always been interested in the technical side of his forehand. I might try to hit my forehand shots like this :).
GnRJay08 3 years ago
Kudos for collecting and editing these shots. The quality of the video, the editing and analysis all are top flight.
write2topcat 3 years ago 3
Its his Tennis racquet. The Babolat AeroPro Drive Cortex racquet which allows Nadal to produce the spin and power.
quest8899 3 years ago 2
You forgot to note that anyone who trys to hit that much spin like nadal could end up damaging their shoulder. Thats why the average person can't hit as much spin as Nadal.
AznRamenDude 3 years ago
he hits semiwestern on his backhand. his forehand is western. sometimes even hawaiian.
Babolat3216 3 years ago
good video!! :D
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
Rafa's serve used to be poor but today is another weapon; he scores a lot of points with his first and second serve. He's only 22 & still imporving; if he improves his serve further he is going to be the most intimidating tennis player in the world!
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
Nadal produces a mega-spin! It's 5000 rpm compare to the best by all other players wich doesn't excede 2000-2500 rpm. His forehand's the most powerful weapon in tennis today; it's intimidating. Added to his mobility, court covarage, back-hand, etc, from the baseline Nadal's a rock; he's inpenetrable! He can outlast anyone in the longest & hardest rallies; if a player engages in long points with Nadal they'll loose! He's the best. :D
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
Oh please. "His forehand's the most powerful weapon in tennis today". Please try not to use drugs before watching tennis. It may affect your judgemental skills.
niclassj 3 years ago 3
The topspin is indeed phenomenal but that doesnt makes his forehand a killer. It's his physique and toughness that made him #1, unlike federer who just has a bit more technique. Its nadals' first year as number 1 and already the injuries are starting to show !! He plays every ball like a match ball. Kudos to Nadal for his fighting spirit
zerohero51 3 years ago 2
I couldn't have said it better myself. All credit to Nadal for his fighting spirit, even though he's also a very skilled player. I don't think his legs will last for long, regarding his playing style. I think 2009 will be a very intense year with many brilliant battles.
niclassj 3 years ago 2
his injuries are starting to show but with the amount of price money he has won, he can just retire early. lol.
lonerkia 3 years ago
You think these guys only play for the money? That's sad...
hennybuggy4 3 years ago 4
Biceps flex when you bend your elbow. Triceps flex when you straighten. In tennis, the major muscle groups used are the legs, abs, back and arm muscles. You use more of your biceps when you do a forehand and more of your triceps when you do a backhand.
Babolat3216 3 years ago
Yesssssssssss! You got it!
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
thats true,.. but u don't need 10kg of muscles in ur arms to hit hard,.. u need a perfect swing! , i bet federer can hit faster forehand than nadal, eventhough nadal has 4times federer's hand..
OBeymydreamz 3 years ago
yeah... federer's forehand is faster... but that's because he hits flatter than nadal... nadal hits with heavy topspin so the air resistence slows it down and concentrates the energy into the court. nadal's forehand faster than fed's? they dont have the same stroke mechanics... so... we'll never know... :)
Babolat3216 3 years ago
Raquet speed is the easies way to create power biceps and triceps have very little to do with power though at the professional level it may make that little bit of difference. I'm 320th in the itf rankings I know what i'm on about.
ivgotdabiggestcock 3 years ago 2
I totally agree; how many of the know champions have needed biceps???
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
He does not 'flick his wrist' nor does he use much bicep to power this shot. this is a really bad way to teach tennis to anybody.
ihateuutube 3 years ago
guess by the way you talk you don't use the western grip do you?
Babolat3216 3 years ago
It gives an accurate description of Nadals game but it doesnt come close to teaching you how to do those moves.Worth watching if you want to know how good Nadals forehand really is
kingkerwick 3 years ago
Exactly kingkerwick, the only way is to see most of his matches and listen to the experts discuss his tennis. I recommend the best: McEnroe, Becker and Borg. I like them because like Rafa and Fed they were also big champions and know what is what in tennis!!
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
it's easy to make small amount of mistakes when u topspin 10m over the net,.. and his footwork isn't half as good as federer's , it's just that he tries to get any ball,.. and federer's kinda lazy for that ^^its funny to watch nadal'z moves slowmo,.. no point in that..
OBeymydreamz 3 years ago
hahahaaha his foot work is the best in the world! Everyone knows that!
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
no no no,he's right,having a strong biceps helps a lot in the reverse finishing forehand,in the backhand it's the triceps that work(on his left arm) but to have that huge forehand it's good to have a good biceps like Rafa.of course the other muscles are important and even more important,it's the tecnic
164jlg 3 years ago
bullshit about the biceps, we are tired of listening the same rubbish! Notbody in the whole world is a champ in tennis because of muscles. Federer No1 for years has been there because of skill. Borg (very much like Rafa) had similar strengh but did not have Rafa's body. Tsonga has muscles but litle else. It is the tennis that brings the best to the top no their muscles!! Enough bull about Rafa's biceps!! :\
YoSoyZuri 3 years ago
bullshit analysis...
PooPooPerson 3 years ago
how does finishing over the head reduce power...i try to get MORE power by finishing over my head and i do
rockerduff1231 3 years ago
Do you guys even know how insanely messed up the grip that nadal uses to put that much topspin? My coach said i hit like nadal so he gave me his grip and its sooooooo western you CAN'T hit a flat ball no matter what you try!
Hexelsfayt 3 years ago
cuz ur fukin retarded!! i win fukin tournaments wid a western grip!!
ihatehistory 3 years ago
yeah biceps and triceps have little or nothing to do with tennis it is all the rotation of the body,sure look at federer theres not a pick on him.yet he has one of the biggest and and the best forehand in the game.
bugatti102 3 years ago 2
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XxwolfZrainxX 3 years ago
nadal is so effective because yes he puts alot of topspin on the ball but he opens his body up to the ball with full extension.and if he is sort of closed up alittle more, he lunges towards the ball then straightens himself during contact.
jraybay 3 years ago
Just wanted to let you know Biceps dont have anything to do with tennis, Biceps are for pulling, its all about the tricep so its really because he has a strong tricep why he can put alot of push behind the ball
alexisthebomb27 3 years ago
HAHH. Biceps and triceps only move the forearm. The arm itself is moved by the pectorals, deltoid, large backmuscle ect. All are important in tennis
arritmo00 3 years ago
Triff51, if you want to hit high balls, simply jump. I suggest looking at federer, its the exact same thing except dont brush up with your racquet as much, just move it forward and follow through. THis will ensure great topsin, slices are ok but i prefer to continuously attack the oppenent. Your choice i guess.
crunchycool 3 years ago
My coach told me not to bend my arms and over the head. He said i'd get injuries
Keirosuke 3 years ago
im a lefty also so i put alot of spin especially topspin.. i cant quite get the rafa forehand but almost and it doesnt work for me its just not effective enough
aaf127 3 years ago
i dont think being lefty has anything to do with how well you do with top spin. Me lefty also
Keirosuke 3 years ago
im a heavy topspin player myself but i still find it so hard to do the nadal forehand... he is so cool... VAMOS RAFA!!!
Glen87 3 years ago
Vamos Rafa! Vamos!
zuluzur 3 years ago
ugh, i can't hit a forehand on a high ball for the life of me....any tips? It just feels really awkward.
TriFF51 3 years ago
Try a slice coming from high to low
trixshots 3 years ago
yea thats the only thing i can do...i always slice those shots...guess i'll just keep trying.
TriFF51 3 years ago
try the federer 'windscreen wiper' type finish from above your shoulder level to under your torso
RogerFedererTennis93 3 years ago
obviously you need a bigger loop in the shot...the lower the ball is the less of a loop you need in the shot after the racquet has reached past the hips...you'll need to just practice that shot if you can i know its hard how the hell can u get someone to consistently hit you high forehands but i just always try to hit it flat...look up "federer flat forehands" and thats what i try to do
rockerduff1231 3 years ago
i use a full western grip so high balls are no prob for me. maybe your grip is eastern or continental that's why u have problems cus with a continental grip, its really hard to close the racquet face to bring the ball down
protiiooi 3 years ago
nadal has a lot of spin but that doesnt make it the most explosive forehand...
appppppppple 3 years ago
actually he can really rip forehands. his shots consistently stay on pace with his opponents shots plus they have the heavy spin which makes them move a little faster after impact with the ground. it isnt uncommon for his forehands to be clocked in the 90's.
thehunto 3 years ago
that doesnt make it the most explosive forehand....
appppppppple 3 years ago
no one will b able to learn this because if it was so easy then every1 would do i and nadal wouldnt be seed number1
chrisss1994 3 years ago
FANKS
MOON717 3 years ago 3
vry good
fanfinley94 3 years ago 6
This vid was really helpful. Thanks!!!
federer101011 3 years ago 6
Nice breakdown of his shot, but could have used some better examples. In the videos you used, Nadal was a bit off balance so it didnt really give a good look at the mechanics of his forehand.
r0kep0ke 3 years ago