Semi-western grip is a popular grip in modern tennis. It is used by many of the top players on tour. This grip is a compromise between the traditional Eastern grip and the more extreme Full-western grip. It is often used in association with modern tennis forehands.

How to Hold a Semi-Western Forehand Grip

Semi-western grips can feel both natural and uncomfortable for some players. Because it is versatile and well-suited for baseline tennis, the Semi-western grip is very popular in today’s game.

The racket butt cap has an octagonal grip with eight sides, or “bevels”. If you are left-handed, place your palm-side knuckle on the fourth (or sixth) bevel to find the Semi-western grip. It should look like this…

Benefits of a Semi-Western grip

Semi-Western grip has many benefits.

It is a versatile grip that offers the best of both worlds. It’s a cross between the Eastern grip, and the Western grip. Players are exposed to fewer drawbacks and many of the benefits of each grip.

First, because it has a relatively close racket face, players have easy access to spin. However, the grip is still conservative enough to allow them to flatten their shots when necessary.

This extra spin allows players to hit the net higher and still get the ball into the court. Players can hit harder from the baseline because they have more room for error.

It is easier to handle higher balls, but it can be problematic with low-bouncing balls. It’s an excellent grip for clay and hard courts, but can cause some problems on grass. It’s not a major issue considering all the other benefits the grip offers.

The disadvantages of Semi-Western Grip

This grip has some minor flaws.

It is not easy to deal with very low balls, especially on grass or carpet/astroturf court surfaces. However, most players get used to the idea and adjust their strokes to deal with lower balls.

Switching between grips can be more difficult when volleying. It can be difficult for players to switch between grips because the Semi-western grip is more different from the Continental grip. This is not a problem for players who are just starting out, as most players soon get used to switching grips.

The drawbacks of the Semi-Western forehand grip are minor and easily overcome by the many benefits. This makes it a great choice for modern tennis players.

What Semi-Western Forehand Grips are used by which players?

The Semi-western forehand grip, which is one of the most well-known grips in modern tennis, is used by many of today’s top players.

It’s used on the men’s tour by Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Stan Wawrinka is another. It’s also used by Venus and Serena Williams as well as Simona Halep, Simona Sharapova and Naomi Osaka on the women’s side.

Do I need a Semi-Western forehand grip?

Your style of play will determine which grip you use. It’s hard to recommend one over the other. We think the Semi-western grip is the best for players who are looking to compete in tennis. It’s versatile nature makes it an excellent choice for baseline players today.

However, Semi-western grips can be a bit awkward at first. We recommend starting with an Eastern forehand grip and gradually moving towards Semi-western.