Sure, there are still plenty of style points on offer at Wimbledon for the blasted backhand that flies past an approaching opponent — especially if it’s hit with one hand. But for the first ...

Behold the beautiful and beloved one-handed backhand, but do it quickly, because time is running short for tennis’s lustiest shot. Yes, the shot that made Roger Federer famous, the signature ...

The latest example of our societal erosion: This month, for the first time in ATP men’s tennis tour history (1973 and beyond), there was not a single player with a one-handed backhand in the Top 10.

More than any other stroke in tennis, the one-handed backhand is as good as the player using it. Its value rests on their ability to veil intent, change direction and pace, and foresee unusual angles.

While grass-court tennis favors big serves and blistering ground strokes, it also rewards players who mix in subtlety and finesse. Among the favored options at a player’s disposal is the slice.