The one-handed backhand is often considered one of the most graceful shots in tennis. For over 149 years, from the first Wimbledon Championships in 1877, every grand slam singles semi-final included at least one male player who used this shot. However, that long-standing tradition ended at this year’s US Open when Stefanos Tsitsipas, the last remaining player using a one-handed backhand in the tournament, was eliminated in the round of 16. This change marks a major shift in the sport, signaling a departure from its early days and the culmination of a trend that has been growing for over five decades. The two-handed backhand has become increasingly popular among top players, to the point where the one-handed backhand is now nearly extinct in elite tennis. This transition reflects a broader evolution in the game, influenced by changes in equipment and playing styles. The one-handed backhand requires the non-dominant hand to pull the racket back and generate power, while the other arm provides balance. Skilled players like Roger Federer, Justine Henin, and Stan Wawrinka could execute this shot with remarkable power and grace. While tennis is primarily about winning points, the elegance of the one-handed backhand is a rare and pleasing byproduct of its efficiency and precision. The decline of the one-handed backhand has been accelerated by the rise of the two-handed backhand, which allows players to hit with more power and recover faster. This is especially evident in the way players like Novak Djokovic can hit wide balls while moving forward. Additionally, advancements in racket technology, such as the use of polyester strings and larger racket heads, have favored players who can generate more topspin, which is more effectively done with a two-handed grip. The one-handed backhand is also more physically demanding, requiring greater strength and timing. This makes it harder for young players to master, which has contributed to the rise of the two-handed backhand. While this shift may seem natural, it is not inevitable. The direction of the sport is influenced by tennis authorities, and changes in equipment or court surfaces could potentially revive the one-handed backhand. Tennis has moved away from the strategic contrast between serve-and-volley players and baseliners, which once defined many of the sport’s greatest rivalries. The one-handed backhand was a key shot for serve-and-volley players, offering more versatility and control. Roger Federer has expressed hope that the one-handed backhand can still find a place in the future of tennis, suggesting changes like banning polyester strings or using faster court surfaces to create a more balanced playing environment.