Are Two Hands Really Better Than One? The One-Handed Backhand Lives On in Tennis
Reports of the demise of the one-handed backhand in tennis have been greatly exaggerated, but there is no denying that the traditional stroke is becoming increasingly rare on the ATP Tour. Players like Grigor Dimitrov, Lorenzo Musetti, and Stefanos Tsitsipas, among others, are making a humorous tribute to the classic groundstroke in a recent video, acknowledging the challenges of adapting to a “two-handed” lifestyle both on and off the court.
In the video, Dimitrov expresses the group’s dedication to embracing the two-handed approach, even in everyday tasks. “We’ve been trying to use two hands everywhere we can,” he says. The video showcases Tsitsipas struggling to brush his teeth, Eubanks attempting to eat lunch, and Thiem grappling with a double-handed paintbrush while creating a masterpiece.
While the video is light-hearted, it underscores the shift in the tennis landscape towards players favoring two-handed backhands. In February this year, there was not a single player with a one-handed backhand in the ATP Top 10 for the first time since the rankings began in 1973. However, Dimitrov and Tsitsipas have since reclaimed their spots among the elite, keeping the tradition of the one-handed backhand alive.
Speaking at Indian Wells, Dimitrov reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the one-handed backhand. “For sure, I’m counting on every guy that’s still out there with one hand to keep on pushing and playing for that,” he said. “Of course, I will probably be the biggest supporter of that shot. I think the beauty of the one hand is just there’s so much to it in order to hit the ball right with one hand.”
The Legacy of the One-Handed Backhand
While the two-handed backhand has become more prevalent in modern tennis, the one-handed backhand continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans and players alike. Its elegance, finesse, and technical demands set it apart as a unique and artful stroke in the game.
Players like Roger Federer, Stan Wawrinka, and Richard Gasquet have demonstrated the beauty and effectiveness of the one-handed backhand on the court, inspiring a new generation of players to embrace the traditional technique. Despite the challenges of mastering the stroke, those who wield a one-handed backhand are admired for their skill and style.
As the game of tennis evolves, the one-handed backhand remains a symbol of tradition and craftsmanship. While the prevalence of two-handed backhands may continue to rise, there will always be a place for the classic elegance of the one-handed backhand on the courts of the ATP Tour.
So, are two hands really better than one? While the debate rages on, one thing is certain—the one-handed backhand will always have a special place in the history and future of tennis.
The Evolution of Tennis Strokes
Since the early days of tennis, the game has seen a significant evolution in playing styles and techniques. While the one-handed backhand was once the predominant stroke in the sport, the rise of players like Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, known for their powerful two-handed backhands, has shifted the landscape of professional tennis.
One of the reasons for the popularity of the two-handed backhand is its perceived advantages in terms of power and consistency. The ability to generate more topspin and control the ball with two hands on the racket has made it a preferred choice for many modern players. However, the one-handed backhand still boasts its own unique advantages, such as greater reach, variety, and aesthetic appeal.
Players who favor the one-handed backhand often cite the sense of connection and control they feel when executing the stroke. The fluid motion and finesse required to hit a one-handed backhand are unmatched, making it a thing of beauty when executed perfectly.
Embracing Diversity in Playing Styles
While the prevalence of two-handed backhands may be on the rise, it is essential to celebrate the diversity of playing styles in tennis. Just as some players excel with a two-handed backhand, others find success and fulfillment in mastering the one-handed variation.
By embracing different techniques and strokes, tennis becomes a richer and more dynamic sport. Fans are treated to a variety of playing styles, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Watching a player like Federer effortlessly glide across the court and unleash a stunning one-handed backhand reminds us of the artistry and skill involved in the game.
As the sport continues to evolve, it is important to appreciate and preserve the traditions that make tennis unique. The one-handed backhand is not just a stroke; it is a piece of tennis history that deserves to be honored and celebrated for its contributions to the game.
Looking Towards the Future
As young players enter the professional tennis scene, they are faced with a choice of whether to adopt the one-handed or two-handed backhand. While the trend may lean towards the latter, there will always be a place for those who choose to wield a one-handed backhand with grace and precision.
Players like Dimitrov, Tsitsipas, and others who champion the one-handed backhand serve as role models for aspiring tennis players who wish to master this classic stroke. Their dedication to preserving the tradition of the one-handed backhand ensures that it will continue to have a presence on the ATP Tour for years to come.
In the end, the debate over whether two hands are better than one may never be fully settled. What is certain, however, is that the one-handed backhand will always have a special allure and significance in the world of tennis, embodying the timeless elegance and artistry of the sport.
Conclusion
While the two-handed backhand may dominate the ATP Tour in the current era of tennis, the one-handed backhand remains a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and beauty in the sport. As players continue to evolve and adapt their playing styles, it is essential to appreciate the diversity of techniques that make tennis a dynamic and captivating game.
Whether you are a fan of the one-handed or two-handed backhand, there is no denying the impact and legacy of each stroke on the history and future of tennis. As the game continues to evolve, it is important to celebrate the rich tapestry of playing styles that contribute to the beauty and excitement of professional tennis.
