Top 10 One-Hand Backhand Tennis Players of All Time


The one-handed backhand is one of the most beautiful and skillful shots in tennis. Here’s a list of the top 10 players who have mastered this stroke and left an indelible mark on the sport:


1. Roger Federer


Key Achievements: 20 Grand Slam titles, 310 weeks as World No. 1

• Known for his smooth and versatile one-handed backhand, Federer’s ability to hit winners from any position on the court has made him a fan favorite.


2. Rod Laver


Key Achievements: 11 Grand Slam titles, 2 Calendar-Year Grand Slams

• Laver’s one-handed backhand was a weapon of precision and power, allowing him to dominate both the amateur and professional circuits.


3. Stan Wawrinka


Key Achievements: 3 Grand Slam titles, 2014 Davis Cup Champion

• Wawrinka’s explosive one-handed backhand, often struck with immense topspin and pace, is one of the most powerful in history.


4. Gustavo Kuerten


Key Achievements: 3-time French Open Champion, World No. 1 in 2000

• Guga’s elegant one-handed backhand helped him rule the clay courts, and his charisma made him a beloved figure in tennis.


5. Ken Rosewall


Key Achievements: 8 Grand Slam titles, 15 Pro Slam titles

• Renowned for his impeccable technique, Rosewall’s one-handed backhand was a model of consistency and finesse.


6. Stefan Edberg


Key Achievements: 6 Grand Slam titles, 2-time Year-End World No. 1

• Edberg’s classic backhand was the backbone of his serve-and-volley game, earning him great success on grass and hard courts.


7. Dominic Thiem


Key Achievements: 2020 US Open Champion, 2-time French Open finalist

• Thiem’s heavy topspin and aggressive one-handed backhand have made him a force on all surfaces in modern tennis.


8. Yannick Noah


Key Achievements: 1983 French Open Champion

• Noah’s athleticism and powerful backhand were key to his success on clay, making him a standout player in his era.


9. Richard Gasquet


Key Achievements: 15 ATP titles, 3-time Grand Slam semifinalist

• Known for his artistic and fluid one-handed backhand, Gasquet’s stroke is regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing in the game.


10. Henri Leconte


Key Achievements: French Open finalist, Davis Cup Champion

• Leconte’s stylish and aggressive one-handed backhand was a hallmark of his flamboyant playing style.


These players have elevated the one-handed backhand to an art form, blending power, precision, and grace to create moments of magic on the court.