Is the One-Handed Backhand a Dying Art? Lorenzo Musetti Thinks So, and Here's Why It Should Matter to You
Tennis sensation Lorenzo Musetti, currently ranked World No. 9, is making waves both on and off the court. At just 23, he’s already achieved a breakthrough season, reaching his first Masters final in Monte Carlo, storming into the French Open semifinals, and climbing to a career-high ranking of No. 6. He’s also set to make his debut at the prestigious ATP Finals. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite being the only top-10 player with a one-handed backhand, Musetti is advising young tennis hopefuls to steer clear of this iconic shot.
“I wouldn’t recommend a one-handed backhand to a child starting out,” Musetti explained. “Modern tennis is really tough, and when it comes to my own son, I’d want him to play with a two-handed backhand.”
But why the shift away from a technique that’s been celebrated by legends like Roger Federer and Stefan Edberg? Musetti’s stance highlights a growing trend in the sport: the two-handed backhand is dominating due to its power, consistency, and versatility. While the one-handed backhand is undeniably elegant and can be a weapon in the right hands, it’s also more technically demanding and less forgiving in today’s fast-paced, baseline-dominated game.
And this is the part most people miss: Musetti’s success with the one-handed backhand is an exception, not the rule. Even tennis purists who admire his style acknowledge that it’s a high-risk, high-reward choice. For aspiring young players, the two-handed backhand offers a more reliable foundation for long-term success.
But is the one-handed backhand truly on its way out? Some argue that its decline is a loss for the sport’s artistry and diversity. Others believe it’s a natural evolution, reflecting the increasing physicality and precision required at the highest levels. What do you think? Is the one-handed backhand worth preserving, or is it time to embrace the two-handed dominance?
Musetti’s recent showdown with Novak Djokovic in the Athens final further underscores his talent. Despite falling just short in a grueling three-hour battle (4-6, 6-3, 7-5), Musetti earned high praise from Djokovic, who called it “an incredible match” and congratulated him on his performance. The loss didn’t stop Musetti from securing his spot at the ATP Finals, thanks to Djokovic’s withdrawal from Turin.
As Musetti continues to rise, his advice to young players serves as a thought-provoking reminder: in the modern game, practicality often trumps tradition. But does that mean we should let the one-handed backhand fade into history? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is a debate that’s far from over.
