The Iconic One-Handed Backhand: Is It Truly a Dying Art?

In the modern era of professional tennis, where heavy topspin, baseline attrition, and physical conditioning often dictate the outcome of matches, the aesthetic beauty of the one-handed backhand has increasingly become a rare sight. Often labeled as an “endangered species” by tactical analysts, this classic stroke remains one of the most debated topics in the sport. As we look at the current landscape, the question remains: does the one-handed backhand still have a viable future, or is it destined to be a relic of a bygone era?

The conversation surrounding this technical mastery often centers on the physical demands of the professional tour. With the game moving toward faster surfaces and more aggressive, high-bouncing kick serves, the two-handed backhand offers a distinct advantage in stability, and power. Yet, to suggest the one-handed backhand is extinct would be to ignore the resilience of veterans like 41-year-old Stan Wawrinka, whose career has been defined by his ability to generate explosive power from a single-handed motion.

The Evolution of the Stroke

Historically, the one-handed backhand was the standard. Legends of the sport utilized it to carve angles and dictate play with precision. However, as the pace of the game accelerated in the 1990s and 2000s, the two-handed backhand—popularized by icons like Jimmy Connors and later perfected by the likes of Andre Agassi and Novak Djokovic—became the foundational teaching for young players. The two-handed grip provides a structural advantage when returning serve, particularly against the high-velocity deliveries that define the modern men’s game.

Despite this, the one-handed backhand persists. It is not merely a nostalgic choice; for many players, it remains a tactical weapon. The ability to vary the height of the ball, utilize the slice to disrupt rhythm, and open up the court with acute angles provides a dimension that the two-handed style sometimes struggles to replicate. For the purist, it is the most beautiful shot in tennis; for the tactician, it is a high-risk, high-reward maneuver that requires impeccable timing.

Stakes at the Major Tournaments

The debate over the stroke’s future often intensifies during Grand Slam events, where the best-of-five format tests the physical limitations of every technique. When we see a legend of the sport struggle or exit a tournament, the conversation inevitably turns to whether their choice of backhand contributed to their fatigue or tactical disadvantage. However, as observed in recent seasons, the exit of a top-tier player is rarely about the stroke itself and more about the relentless evolution of the field.

At the French Open, the clay courts provide a unique environment where the one-handed backhand can actually flourish. The surface allows for more time to set up, enabling players to execute the full extension required for a clean strike. While the younger generation of players is heavily coached in two-handed mechanics, there remains a contingent of rising stars who are experimenting with the one-handed variety, proving that the style still holds appeal for those seeking to differentiate their game.

Why It Matters: The Tactical Divide

The primary challenge for any player utilizing a one-handed backhand today is the defensive burden. Returning serve against players who hit with extreme topspin puts massive pressure on the shoulder and wrist. Yet, the tactical versatility it offers—particularly the backhand slice, which stays low and skids through the court—remains an essential tool for neutralizing power hitters. It is a game of chess played at 120 miles per hour.

Coaches today face a difficult decision: do they train a child to hit with the more “stable” two hands, or do they nurture the natural, more fluid motion of a one-handed swing? The consensus among many high-performance academies is to prioritize the two-handed backhand for its consistency, but the door is never fully closed for those who possess the natural athleticism to master the one-hander.

The Path Forward

As we look ahead to the remainder of the 2026 season, the debate will continue to unfold on the court. The one-handed backhand is not dead, but it has certainly evolved. It is no longer the default, but rather a specialized skill set for the player who values court craft and variety over pure, repetitive power. The next time you watch a match, pay close attention to the slice usage and the angle creation—that is where the one-handed backhand finds its true purpose.

We will continue to monitor the technical trends across the ATP and WTA tours as the season progresses toward the next major milestones. For those who appreciate the artistry of the sport, the one-handed backhand remains a testament to the enduring human element in an increasingly mechanized game.

What are your thoughts on the future of the one-handed backhand? Join the conversation in the comments below and let us know which player you think carries the torch best today.