Technique: Classic and Modern Two Handed Backhand Part 2 Modern

So you have seen the classic two handed backhand but you don't like to be the one who uses the spin more.  You like power and pace with less effort.

The Modern Two Handed Backhand

Players that use it: Andy Murray, Lleyton Hewitt, Novak Djokovic, David Nalbandian, Serena Williams

It hardly looks that different in normal speed:


But in slow motion you can see it...


And even better when put up against Venus's classic backhand


See how once Serena extends her arms back, she keeps them extended throughout the stroke (more or less)?

Serena's extension of the arms gives the shot more rotational energy from the shoulders and waist allowing you to hit the shot slower and with less energy.  It also allows you to stay rooted into the ground all the way through the stroke.  Many professional players are starting to adopt this technique because throughout the long matches you want a nice and easy technique.

The bonus of this technique is that, if you are flexible, you can maximize it.  Meaning a small skinny person can hit a powerful backhand.  Even though Serena is a built lady, her shoulders are very flexible.  You also have a good reach with it, allowing you to use it more on the run.

The problem?  Whereas you footwork would have to be better moving to balls with the classic backhand, your footwork needs to be better GETTING OUT OF THE WAY for this one.


The technique is really ineffective when you get jammed.  And because you don't put much spin on it, it becomes a low quality ball.  If you have the type of strokes made for reaching, a ball coming right at you will ruin your day.

Here is a highlight from one of my favorite matches in which Marat Safin and Andre Agassi use the modern backhand to play some powerful tennis.  It sounds like they are cracking the ball but when you look at them individually it doesn't seem that way.


This backhand is a great technique for the person that likes to conserve energy and hit the ball nice and powerful.  Keeping your body loose so that you can use the full effect of this backhand is very important.  Good luck!