Stefanos Tsitsipas Pledges to Carry Forward Roger Federer’s ‘Legacy’ as He Looks to Revive Tennis’ Dying Art

Stefanos Tsitsipas is a big Roger Federer fan. He even got a signed racket along with a written message from his tennis idol as Federer bid adieu to tennis in 2022. Now it’s time for the Greek tennis star to step forward and protect a particular legacy of the Swiss Maestro. Tsitsipas is currently the highest-ranked player who uses the one-handed approach on the circuit.

Currently, Tsitsipas got off to a flying start at the 2024 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. During the recent post-match press conference, he admitted that he believes he must protect Federer’s legacy of OHBH (one-handed backhand) dominance.

Stefanos Tsitsipas reflects on the ‘Most beautiful shot in tennis’

During the interview, Stefanos Tsitsipas was asked if he enjoys the complexity, beauty, and flexibility involving the one-handed backhand shot. In reply, he said, “It’s a complex shot to master and to perfect, and it takes a lot of time to get to a point where you develop an amazing single-handed backhand. One that is a weapon, too.” Tsitsipas believes that the double-handed backhands are way easier and simpler than this shot. And, this is perhaps one of the reasons why very few players have OHBH in their bags.

Tsitsipas also said that it’s the “most beautiful shot in tennis” and also the “most difficult thing to learn“. But Tsitsipas understands that it has its own rewards and can be a “massive lethal weapon” for those who can excel in it. Like Roger Federer? A big yes.

Stefanos Tsitsipas added, “I feel like I am part of the players that carry on the legacy of the single-handed backhand.” He believes that without some brave men who still carry the torch like him, this shot would barely be seen on the tour.

READ MORE: Roger Federer’s Iconic Shot’s Demise Dissected as Tennis Embarks on a New Journey With Youngsters

Stefanos Tsitsipas called the OHBH an “old-school shot“, but he believes it has its modernity these days. So according to the Greek tennis star, more kids may decide to pursue a single-handed backhand in the future.

Who has the most beautiful backhand in the tennis world according to Tsitsipas?

During the interview, Stefanos Tsitsipas said, “In terms of elegance and beauty, I would probably say Gasquet’s is a beautiful backhand. Otherwise Roger’s.” Talking more about Roger Federer’s art, he said, “Roger has a very nice flow, as well. It’s poetry when you watch it. He can mix up the slice, which makes it an interesting combination. Switching from a single-handed backhand topspin to a slice.”

He further added, “But I feel like Stan’s single-handed backhand down the line is much better. In my opinion, having played him.” In a sport that is becoming faster and faster day by day, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for Top players to try the OHBH.

With higher bounces on the courts, it is very tough to control the shot. Double-handed shots help the players find more stability in comparison. Who according to you has the best one-handed backhand shot in the tennis world?

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