Dominic Thiem remains the last player with a one-handed backhand to win a Grand Slam title, achieving this feat at the 2020 US Open by defeating Alexander Zverev. Since Thiem’s victory, Stefanos Tsitsipas has come the closest among players using a one-handed backhand, reaching the finals of the French Open in 2021 and the Australian Open in 2023. Throughout his career, Thiem secured a total of 17 tour-level titles. Despite his accomplishments, Thiem does not consider his one-handed backhand among the top five in tennis history. In a recent podcast, he ranked Stan Wawrinka first, followed by Richard Gasquet, Roger Federer, and Gaston Gaudio, while opting to include Lorenzo Musetti instead of himself. Wawrinka, who has won three Grand Slam titles, is set to retire at the end of the current season.
Why It Matters
Dominic Thiem’s acknowledgment of his standing in the history of tennis highlights the competitive nature of the sport, especially among players known for their one-handed backhands. Thiem’s 2020 US Open victory marked a significant moment as it ended a lengthy pursuit for a Grand Slam title after three previous final losses. Wawrinka’s impressive career, including his ability to win major titles during an era dominated by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, showcases the high level of talent in men’s tennis. Understanding these dynamics helps contextualize the evolution of playing styles and the ongoing competition among top players in the sport.
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