The one-handed backhand has long been considered the most elegant stroke in tennis. Brought to the summit by legends like Federer, Tsitsipas, or Wawrinka, it nonetheless seems to be gradually fading before the efficiency of the two-handed backhand.

The Quest for Maximum Stability

Modern tennis is characterized by a constant increase in ball speed. Faced with increasingly heavy shots, the two-handed backhand offers superior stability. The non-dominant hand acts as a guide and support, allowing for better countering of the opponent's power. In a sport where defense has become paramount, the solidity of a two-handed backhand is an advantage few players can afford to ignore.

The Challenge of High Balls and Topspin

The evolution of the game on clay courts and the massive use of topspin have made life difficult for one-handed backhand enthusiasts. It is physically exhausting and technically complex to hit a ball located above the shoulder with only one arm. Players like Rafael Nadal have proven that by pounding this zone, they can neutralize even the best one-handed backhands. With two hands, the ideal impact zone is much wider, which facilitates the control of high, looping trajectories.

Serve Speed and Return

With serves regularly exceeding 200 km/h, the reaction time on the return is minimal. The two-handed backhand allows for a shorter and more compact gesture, ideal for blocking the ball and relying on the opponent's speed. With one hand, the preparation is often longer, which exposes the player to being outpaced by the most powerful serves on the professional circuit.

Training Focused on Efficiency

Today, the vast majority of training centers prioritize the two-handed backhand from a very young age. Easier to learn for children who lack forearm strength, it guarantees faster results in competition. The one-handed backhand has become an exception, an often aesthetic choice that requires a colossal technical investment to be effective at a high level.

Conclusion

While the one-handed backhand will undoubtedly never completely disappear thanks to its versatility in slicing and its aesthetic beauty, it has become a niche weapon. In a tennis world that is increasingly physical and fast, the safety and strength of the two-handed backhand seem to have definitively taken over the classicism of yesteryear.