Abstract: An improved implement for use in playing the game of tennis and the like wherein the handle assembly associated therewith is sloped or offset in one or more planes relative to the longitudinal equilibrium axis of the implement to facilitate and enhance the gripping and manipulation of the implement during the course of play and enable a user to achieve a more comfortable range or wrist movement without sacrificing implement position and without overloading or overstressing the wrist, forearm and/or elbow of the user. The present handle assembly includes a grip portion having a longitudinal axis which intersects the axis of longitudinal equilibrium of the implement at an angle of approximately 13.5.degree. (.+-.4.degree.) in the plane of the planar surface of the implement head assembly.