He has a
wonderful forehand drive, of a top-spin variety. This shot is
world famous, for never in the history of the game has so small a
man hit with such terrific speed and accuracy. The racquet
travels flat and then over the ball, with a peculiar wrist-snap
just as the ball meets the racquet face. The shot travels deep
and fast to the baseline.
Johnston's backhand is a decided "drag" or chop. He hits it with
the same face of the racquet as his forehand, and with very
little change in grip. It is remarkably steady and accurate, and
allows Johnston to follow to the net behind it.
Johnston's volleying is hard, deep, and usually very reliable. He
crouches behind his racquet and volleys directly in to the flight
of the ball, hitting down. His low volleys are made with a
peculiar wrist-flick that gives the rise and speed. His overhead
is accurate, reliable, but not startling in its power. Johnston's
game has no real weakness, while his forehand and volleying are
superlative.
Johnston is a remarkable match player. He reaches his greatest
game when behind. He is one of the hardest men to beat in the
game owing to his utter lack of fear and the dogged determination
with which he hangs on when seemingly beaten. He is quiet,
modest, and a sterling sportsman. He gets a maximum result with a
minimum effort.
R. N. WILLIAMS
R. N. Williams, American Champion 1914 and 1916, another of my
Davis Cup team-mates, is a unique personality in the tennis
world.
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