The one-handed backhand, once a defining stroke for many tennis greats, increasingly seems to be a rarity on the modern tennis court. As the sport evolves with the rise of power-hitting and aggressive baseline play, players wielding a two-handed backhand dominate the game. Looking ahead to 2026, the question arises: can a player without a traditional two-handed backhand, like Carlos Alcaraz, reach the pinnacle of Grand Slam success, and what does this mean for the fate of the one-handed backhand?
Historically, the one-handed backhand was not just a technique but a signature style that shaped entire eras of tennis. It was the weapon of choice for legends such as Rod Laver, John McEnroe, and Boris Becker, all of whom used the stroke with finesse and power to dismantle their opponents. Laver, who completed two calendar-year Grand Slams in 1962 and 1969, was known for his fluid single-handed backhand that blended precision with pace. McEnroe’s artistry and shot-making were enhanced by his impeccable one-hander, creating some of the most memorable rallies in tennis history. Becker, known for his explosive serve-and-volley style, wielded the one-handed backhand with a rare combination of aggression and reach.
The roots of the single-handed backhand stretch even deeper into tennis history. In the early days, tennis was largely a net-dominated game, requiring players to approach the net frequently and use variety in shots. The finer wrist control and reach of the one-hand backhand suited this style superbly. Icons like Ken Rosewall, who played from the 1950s to the 1970s and was dubbed “The Maestro,” demonstrated incredible longevity and consistency with his masterful single-handed backhand, showing its enduring effectiveness.
However, as tennis moved into the late 20th and early 21st centuries, several changes set the stage for the decline of the one-handed backhand. Developments in racket technology and string materials led to higher ball speeds and more massive topspin potential. Courts became slower in many tournaments, favoring baseline rallies and heavier hitting. The two-handed backhand provided players with enhanced stability, safer handling of high-bouncing balls, and generally greater consistency under pressure, especially with the increasing power and spin from opponents.
Modern tennis stars exemplify this shift. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Serena Williams—all multiple Grand Slam champions—have all employed two-handed backhands. This stroke’s increased control and balance allow these players to absorb and redirect power with remarkable efficiency, giving them an edge in long baseline encounters typical of the current game.
Despite the decline, the one-handed backhand is far from extinct and remains beloved for its elegance and variety. Recent top players like Roger Federer and Stan Wawrinka sustained successful careers largely thanks to their devastating one-handers. Wawrinka’s backhand in particular became a signature shot that helped him secure three Grand Slam titles. Stefanos Tsitsipas, another prominent player with a one-handed backhand, made a significant impact when he reached the 2023 Australian Open final, although he was ultimately bested by Djokovic. Tsitsipas’ style highlights both the aesthetic appeal of the one-handed backhand and some of its limitations in today’s power-driven rallies.
Interestingly, different surfaces can also influence the effectiveness of the backhand style. Grass and faster courts often favor the reach and slice variety of the one-hander, while the high-bouncing clay courts tend to suit the two-hander’s stability against heavy topspin. Players such as Dominic Thiem demonstrated how a one-handed backhand could thrive even on clay, showcasing heavy topspin and power in that stroke.
Looking to the future, the persistence of the one-handed backhand may hinge upon the next generation of players and coaching philosophies. While power and safety have driven many toward the two-hander, there is a renewed interest in variety and artistry in tennis, aspects that the one-hander can provide. The stroke allows for a greater range of slices, drop shots, and angles—tools increasingly valuable in changing the pace of baseline battles and disrupting opponents’ rhythm.
According to some experts, however, the physical demands of the modern game—more explosive footwork, faster rallies, and tougher defensive positioning—mean players may shy away from adopting the single-handed backhand because it can be more difficult to master and sustain at the highest levels. Furthermore, the ability to handle balls high above the waist, a common occurrence thanks to modern topspin production, is easier with two hands, giving the two-hander a continued edge.
That said, the beauty of tennis lies in its evolving styles and innovations. The history of the game shows that strokes and strategies go through cycles of popularity. The one-handed backhand, deeply intertwined with the sport’s heritage, still holds a cherished place for many fans and players. Whether it will stage a significant comeback or continue to be a skill primarily seen in a few unique players remains to be seen.
As the 2026 season approaches, tennis enthusiasts keenly await to see if new stars can carve their names in history with a one-handed backhand or solidify the dominance of the two-handed stroke. Will Carlos Alcaraz defy the prevailing trend or become an emblem of modern power tennis without the single-handed shot? Only time will tell, but the debate over the fate of the one-handed backhand continues to captivate and inspire.
We invite tennis fans and players alike to share their views on this fascinating evolution of the game. The one-handed backhand might be a technique—yet it is also an art, a flair that brings a certain magic to tennis courts around the world.
What do you think the future holds for this elegant shot? Will it survive the pressures of the modern game, or will it remain a cherished relic of tennis history? Join the conversation and let your voice be heard.