One-Handed vs Two-Handed Backhand: Which Should You Play?
Few tennis questions spark more debate than this one. The one-hander is romantic, elegant and increasingly rare; the two-hander is the modern default that most of the tour now uses. Both win Grand Slams, so neither is 'wrong' — but for your game, one is usually the smarter choice. Here's the honest breakdown.
The two-handed backhand
The two-hander is the modern standard for good reason. The second hand adds stability and power, makes the stroke easier to learn and repeat, and — crucially — handles high, heavy balls far better, which is exactly what modern topspin produces. It also tends to make for a stronger, more compact return of serve.
The trade-offs: slightly less reach on the stretch, more awkwardness on very low balls, and you'll still need to learn a one-handed slice for defence and variety (everyone does).
The one-handed backhand
The one-hander offers more reach, a more natural transition to slice and volleys, and a feel and elegance its fans adore. Its variety — drive, slice, drop — flows from one grip and one hand, which makes an attacking, net-rushing style very natural.
The trade-offs are real, though: it's harder to learn and master, more demanding on timing and strength, and it genuinely struggles against high, heavy balls to the backhand — which is why the pro ranks have steadily shifted toward two hands.
So which should YOU play?
For most players — especially adults picking the game up, or anyone who wants consistent results sooner — the two-hander is the pragmatic choice: easier to learn, more forgiving, and better suited to the modern high-bouncing game.
Choose the one-hander if you're starting young with time to develop it, you love a slice-and-approach style, or the sheer feel of it is what keeps you playing. Just go in knowing the high-ball weakness is something you'll have to manage.
Either way, you need a one-handed slice
This surprises beginners: even committed two-handers hit slice with one hand. The slice is essential for defence, for low balls, for approaches and for changing rhythm. So learning some one-handed backhand feel isn't optional — it's part of every complete game.
Can you switch later?
You can, but it's hard once a stroke is grooved — expect months of feeling worse before you feel better. That's the strongest argument for choosing deliberately early rather than drifting into one by accident. If you're a true beginner and undecided, default to two hands; it's the lower-risk path to a reliable backhand.
The bottom line
- Two-handed — easier, more stable, better on high balls, stronger return. The default for most.
- One-handed — more reach, better slice/variety, gorgeous feel; harder to master and vulnerable up high.
- Everyone needs a one-handed slice regardless.
- Undecided beginner? Start two-handed.
Whichever you choose, our beginner-to-5.0 pathway shows what to drill at each stage.
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