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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/tennis-backhand

Can a tennis backhand be hit with two hands?

Yes. Backhands are hit one-handed or two-handed.

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  1. No, it must be one-handed
  2. Yes, one-handed or two-handed ✔
  3. Only by players under 12

Why: USTA's glossary says backhands are hit either one-handed or two-handed. The backhand is on the left side for a right-hander.

Huh, didn't know that: On a two-handed backhand, USTA coaches call the top hand the driver and the bottom hand the passenger.

The dad joke
Why did the backhand bring a friend? It needed support on the other side.
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References

Answer: Yes, one-handed or two-handed. USTA's glossary says backhands are hit either one-handed or two-handed. The backhand is on the left side for a right-hander.

  1. USTA: Tennis terms and definitions www.usta.com/en/home/improve/tips-and-instruction/national/tennis-terms-definitions.html
    Backhands are hit either one-handed or two-handed.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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