Two-Handed Backhand
Also known as: two-hander, double-handed backhand
A two-handed backhand places both hands on the grip, with the non-dominant hand providing additional stability, power, and disguise through contact.
The two-handed backhand became the dominant professional style from the 1970s onward because of its structural advantages: the second hand reduces the lever arm and keeps the racquet face more stable at contact, allowing players to handle high-bouncing topspin and hard-hit balls more easily than a one-handed grip. The stance is typically semi-open or square, with a full hip-shoulder coil on the backswing. The swing arc is more compact than a one-handed backhand, and disguise is improved because the wrist stays neutral longer. Common faults include pulling the lead elbow away from the body, failing to load the back leg, and releasing the grip at contact. The two-hander is the first backhand most coaches teach beginners because it is more forgiving of late contact.
Example
Novak Djokovic's two-handed backhand is renowned for its accuracy and ability to redirect pace — he can send a 100 mph ball down the line with minimal adjustment.
Why it matters
A two-handed backhand that breaks down under pace usually reveals a unit-turn deficit. SwingVantage can detect whether you are rotating enough to meet the ball out front.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch from a one-handed to a two-handed backhand as an adult?
Yes, many adult players switch successfully. Expect a short adjustment period while the non-dominant arm builds the coordination needed to drive through the ball.
Related terms
- BackhandThe backhand is a groundstroke hit on the non-dominant side of the body, played either with one hand or two, and can be struck flat, with topspin, or as a slice.
- Unit TurnA unit turn is rotating the hips and shoulders together as one unit when preparing for a groundstroke, instead of just taking the racquet back with the arm.
- Kinetic ChainThe kinetic chain in tennis is the sequential transfer of force from the ground up through the legs, hips, torso, shoulder, arm, and racquet, each segment accelerating the next to multiply racquet-head speed.
- Follow-ThroughThe follow-through is the path the racquet takes after contact. A complete finish confirms the swing was not decelerated before the ball was struck.
- Eastern GripThe eastern grip places the base knuckle of the index finger on the flat side bevel of the handle (bevel 3), allowing a flat or moderate-topspin forehand with a comfortable contact height.
- Crosscourt ShotA crosscourt shot travels diagonally across the net to the opposite side of the court, exploiting the longest available distance and the lowest part of the net.
Related guides & benchmarks
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