One-Handed Backhand

Intermediategroundstrokes

Deep turn, non-hitting hand on the racket, weight on the back foot.

An elegant stroke requiring a deep shoulder turn, a step across the body, and full extension through the ball.

Key points

•Full shoulder turn — show your back to the net
•Step across with the front foot
•Extend the hitting arm fully at contact
•Non-hitting arm extends behind for balance

Practice with Coach Elena

Camera setup tips

· Place the camera side-on to you, 2 to 3 metres away.
· Keep your whole body in frame, head to feet.
· Phone on a tripod or a laptop webcam both work.
· Perform the movement, pause, repeat. Your coach speaks every 15 seconds.

Theory & Technique

The one-handed backhand is one of the most aesthetically beautiful shots in tennis but also one of the most technically demanding. It begins with a full shoulder turn — you should almost show your back to the net. The non-hitting hand stays on the racket throat during the take-back for support. As the ball approaches, step across your body with the front foot and release the non-hitting hand behind you for counterbalance. The hitting arm extends fully at contact, meeting the ball well in front of the lead hip. Unlike the forehand, the backhand relies more on timing and leverage than raw rotation.

Fun Fact

Roger Federer's one-handed backhand is considered one of the greatest shots in tennis history. He could generate over 80 mph of racket-head speed on his backhand — rivalling many players' forehands.

Watch the real thing

Learn from real coaches first. Your live scoring compares you to the reference figure above; these videos are for learning, and stay with their creators on YouTube.