Open Attack
The shape of the game:

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Foot Fundamentals
The classic closed stance has been under assault for awhile as players seek to utilize more power through the open stance. It is clearly a huge part of today's game with most of the top ground stroke players settling into this position and swinging with awesome power.

Andy Roddick is on the attack and uses his open forehand as a weapon. It is important to notice how on the open stance forehand for the righthander how the right foot is of paramount importance. It is the pivot foot which stablizes the movement. The left foot is relaxed and being positioned to accept the weight transfer

As he begins his motion the weight transfer and hip rotation all followthrough with the racquet head lower than the wrist to impart topspin when the ball is hit. Andy's eyes are focused on the path of the ball and his left hand is counterbalancing his body.

At the moment of contact the racquet strings are strking the ball in the center as Andy lifts off the ground to make the upward motion even more powerful. His left arm has now come closer to his body to enable the rotation to take place at a faster speed like when a dancer twirls to gain momentum. His eyes are set in approximately the same position which was the path of the ball to the racquet.

This photo is a continuation of the shot and it shows clearly that as he hits the ball his left hand and arm are very close to his body and his eyes are looking forward to follow the path of the ball.

This shows that he is completely off the ground and his hips have turned with his right arm or hitting arm and his left hand is holding his left shoulder from opening up. His eyes are now seeing the ball leave his racquet.

It is evident now that he has shifted his weight to his left side and release his left shoulder and arm. His Right arm has finished the stroke and he is watching the ball as it passes over the net. His next move will be a recovery and split step to regain total balance and prepare for the return from his opponent.

Andy Roddick displays an awesome forehand with control and power. The shot requires balance, vision and lift through the ball. The contact point on this shot was perfectly timed and his movements shows the essence of attacking power through the use of an open stance forehand.