Tennis History: The Streak of One-Handed Backhands in ATP Year-End Top 10
As the 2025 tennis season comes to a close, one player stands out for keeping a remarkable streak alive in the ATP rankings. Lorenzo Musetti, the Italian sensation, has had a breakout year, securing his spot in the year-end Top 10 for the first time at No. 8. This achievement marks a historic moment in tennis history, as there has been at least one player with a one-handed backhand in every year-end Top 10 since the ATP rankings began in 1973.
Breaking Tradition
In 2024, the tennis world witnessed a rare occurrence when, for the first time in ATP rankings history, there were no players with one-handed backhands in the Top 10 for six weeks. However, Grigor Dimitrov’s comeback saw him reclaim a spot in the Top 10, ensuring the streak continued. In 2025, the tradition was challenged once again as there were eight weeks without a one-handed backhand in the Top 10. But Musetti’s phenomenal performances on the clay court secured his place in the elite group, reaffirming the presence of one-handed backhands in the year-end rankings.
Musetti’s Remarkable Year
During the 2025 season, Musetti made significant strides in his career, reaching his first Masters 1000 final in Monte Carlo and the semifinals at Roland Garros. His consistent performances and talent have not only solidified his position in the Top 10 but also highlighted the skill and elegance of the one-handed backhand.
Despite facing a brief period without a one-handed backhand presence in the Top 10 in recent years, Musetti’s success underscores the enduring legacy of this playing style in professional tennis. Notably, he is currently the only player with a one-handed backhand in the Top 20, emphasizing his unique position in the rankings.
Women’s Tennis and the One-Handed Backhand
While the ATP rankings have maintained a tradition of one-handed backhands in the Top 10, the women’s tour has seen a different trend. It has been more than nine years since a woman with a one-handed backhand ranked in the Top 10, with the last occurrence in 2016. The absence of one-handed backhands in the women’s Top 10 highlights the evolving playing styles and strategies in women’s tennis.
Looking Ahead
As the tennis season progresses, fans and experts alike anticipate the next breakthroughs and records to be set in the sport. Tomorrow, a young star is poised to make history, adding to the excitement and intrigue surrounding the future of tennis.
Overall, the enduring presence of one-handed backhands in the ATP rankings showcases the diversity and skill of players in the sport. Musetti’s remarkable year and Top 10 debut serve as a testament to the timeless elegance and effectiveness of the one-handed backhand in modern tennis.
The Evolution of the One-Handed Backhand
Throughout the history of tennis, the one-handed backhand has been a hallmark of elegance and finesse on the court. While the trend in recent years has leaned towards players favoring the two-handed backhand for its power and consistency, the presence of players like Musetti who excel with a one-handed backhand brings a touch of artistry back to the game. The fluid motion and beautiful technique displayed by players with one-handed backhands add a unique flair to their style of play, captivating fans and fellow players alike.
Players like Roger Federer, Stan Wawrinka, and Richard Gasquet have been celebrated for their mastery of the one-handed backhand, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness even in the modern era of power tennis. Their ability to generate angles, slice shots, and finish points with finesse highlights the nuances and artistry that set the one-handed backhand apart from its two-handed counterpart.
The Impact of Coaching and Playing Surfaces
Coaching philosophy and the playing surfaces on the ATP tour have also played a significant role in shaping the prevalence of one-handed backhands in the Top 10. Traditionally, clay courts have favored players with one-handed backhands due to the added control and spin they can generate on these surfaces. Conversely, hard courts and faster surfaces have often been associated with the dominance of players with two-handed backhands, who can handle the pace and power more effectively.
Coaches and players alike have recognized the importance of developing a versatile game that can adapt to different playing conditions. While the two-handed backhand may offer more stability and power in certain situations, the one-handed backhand remains a valuable tool for players looking to add variety and finesse to their game. As Musetti’s success demonstrates, the one-handed backhand is far from being outdated and continues to be a potent weapon in the arsenal of skilled players.
Embracing Diversity in Playing Styles
In a sport as dynamic and multifaceted as tennis, the diversity of playing styles adds richness and excitement to the game. While some players thrive on power and aggression, others rely on finesse and touch to outmaneuver their opponents. The presence of one-handed backhands in the ATP Top 10 reinforces the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success in tennis.
By celebrating and encouraging different playing styles, tennis fans can appreciate the artistry and creativity that players bring to the court. Whether it’s a blistering forehand, a delicate drop shot, or a perfectly executed one-handed backhand down the line, each style of play contributes to the tapestry of the sport and makes it all the more compelling to watch.
Looking to the Future of Tennis
As the sport of tennis continues to evolve and adapt to changing trends and technologies, the role of the one-handed backhand in the game remains a topic of fascination and discussion. While the two-handed backhand may offer certain advantages in terms of power and consistency, the one-handed backhand adds a touch of artistry and finesse that sets it apart.
With players like Musetti leading the charge and showcasing the beauty of the one-handed backhand, the future of tennis looks bright and promising. As fans eagerly await the next generation of players and the innovations they will bring to the sport, the enduring legacy of the one-handed backhand serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal and elegance of tennis.
