Federer regrets never playing Alcaraz, laments decline of single-handed backhand

Roger Federer, the 45-year-old Swiss tennis icon, made a comeback to the US Open for an exhibition match, marking his first appearance in New York since 2019. While he firmly rejected the idea of a professional comeback, Federer revealed his wish to have competed against rising star Carlos Alcaraz.

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Perhaps Carlos, I think he is an exciting player I never had the chance to play against.

Federer, who retired at the Laver Cup in September 2022, never had the opportunity to face Alcaraz during his illustrious career. "Perhaps Carlos, I think he is an exciting player I never had the chance to play against," Federer said, expressing his admiration for the young talent. He added with a touch of humor, "But I don't have to worry about how to play him, because I'm not in the draw." Federer wished Alcaraz well for his future performances.

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But I don't have to worry about how to play him, because I'm not in the draw.

The conversation then shifted to the evolution of tennis techniques, specifically the diminishing use of the single-handed backhand, a signature shot of Federer's. He noted that while he would love to see players excel with it, the majority of coaches now teach the double-handed backhand, which is generally easier for beginners. Factors like advancements in racket and string technology, slower ball speeds, and a shift in game strategy from net play to baseline rallies have contributed to the dominance of the double-handed backhand. Nadal and Djokovic, for example, demonstrate its formidable defensive capabilities.

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I would be happy to see players play the single-handed backhand well.

Despite the trend, Federer expressed his hope that the single-handed backhand would not disappear entirely from the sport. He acknowledged the defensive strengths of the double-handed backhand, which has become the preferred choice for many players today. The former champion's reflections highlight a significant shift in tennis strategy and technique over the years.

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When I was learning to play, the double-handed backhand was indeed easier to get started with, but I still hope that the single-handed backhand will not disappear just like that.