Tommy Haas: The World’s Best Backhand?

Tommy Haas’ backhand–to me, it’s the best backhand in the world today. I say that because he can do anything
with the ball; drive it, get under it and hit with topspin, hit angle shots, work the ball in rallies, and he also has a
fantastic slice.

Let’s look closer at how he does it by using some of the magnificent high speed footage of Tommy developed by
John Yandell’s non-profit organization, Advanced Tennis Research Project.

Preparation

Notice as Tommy starts his back swing on the backhand side, he immediately begins to change his grip, moving
from a semi-western forehand to a full eastern backhand grip. Note that the grip change is completed well before the
completion of his turn.

At the start of Tommy’s motion, his shoulder is already going back. He has a big shoulder turn and the left
hand goes back beautifully, automatically preparing the racquet. His arm is fairly close to his body, and I like that too.

Too many players, especially at lower levels. take the racquet back separately from the hip and shoulder turn. This means they end up hitting the ball with the arm only. If you turn your shoulder and hips, the…