By Leo Canaparo. tennis coach. Argentina
I always emphasize the significance of mastering different stances, and the open stance is one of the most crucial in today’s modern game. This stance allows players to generate power, maintain balance, and recover quickly, making it essential in high-pressure situations.
One of the key benefits of the open stance is its ability to handle deep and wide balls. When a player is stretched on the run, using an open stance enables them to stay balanced while still producing a strong shot. This is especially useful on hard courts, where quick recovery is critical.
Additionally, the open stance helps in generating maximum rotation from the hips and shoulders. By using the body’s natural torque, players can create effortless power, especially on forehand groundstrokes. This is why most top ATP and WTA players rely on it, particularly in baseline rallies.
Defensive situations also demand the use of an open stance. When facing a fast-paced shot or a heavy topspin ball, the open stance allows players to absorb the pace and return a deep, controlled response without losing court position.
Finally, the open stance is fundamental for modern shot-making. It provides the flexibility to change directions, hit aggressive angles, and transition into attack mode quickly. Mastering this stance will improve not just power, but also efficiency and movement on the court.