(VIDEO) How hard can a single-handed backhand be as Jannik Sinner, Ons Jabeur, Ben Shelton among others challenged at Madrid Open
ATPFriday, 03 May 2024 at 22:30
Tennis
players from the ATP and WTA showcased their skills by playing with a
one-handed backhand on the courts of the Madrid Open. Tour stars took part in a
promotional video for the tournament, including Jannik Sinner, Ben Shelton, Ons
Jabeur, Taylor Fritz, and Jelena Ostapenko.
The social
media channels of the Mutua Madrid Open shared a training session where players
were asked to play with their one-handed backhand.
Several
players shared their impressions of how their backhands would be: "I have
the best one, Roger called me, you know, last time," Ons Jabeur said.
"When he retired he gave me his… no, that was a bad one," she added
after a couple of hits.
"I’ve always wanted to have a single-handed
backhand, but my coach never let me. We’re gonna see why now," Alex De
Minaur told.
In the
video, it is seen that most of the players struggle to achieve a good shot with
the single-handed backhand. Some of those who stood out were Ben Shelton, Demi
Schuurs, Nicolas Jarry, Ons Jabeur, Sebastian Korda, and Mirra Andreeva.
Other
players who participated in the video included Joao Fonseca, Taylor Fritz,
Jelena Ostapenko, Luisa Stefani, Beatriz Haddad Maia, among others.
“The
single-handed backhand - how hard can it be?”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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