Most tennis players expect their forehand to be their strongest weapon. It’s usually taught first, looks more powerful, and for many, feels natural.
But if you’ve ever wondered “Why is my backhand better than my forehand?”, you’re not alone.
There are real, explainable reasons this happens—many built right into your body’s natural mechanics.
If your forehand feels behind, see our guide to fixing a weak forehand for targeted improvement strategies.
Why Is My Backhand Better Than My Forehand?
A player’s backhand can outperform their forehand due to factors like eye dominance, cross-dominance, better stroke control, and reduced overhitting. Two-handed backhands also offer more stability and consistent timing. Understanding your body’s natural coordination helps you build on strengths while improving weaker shots.
💡 My Experience: The Backhand Always Came Easier
Since I was a kid, my backhand has felt more reliable. When I returned to tennis after a long break, I expected that to change — but it didn’t.
My forehand needed rebuilding, but my backhand felt familiar, almost like riding a bike.
I’m mostly left-handed for fine-motor activities like writing, eating, and swinging a racket.
But for things like throwing, kicking, or catching, I use my right side.
That makes me cross-dominant — using different sides of my body for different tasks.
On top of that, my left eye is dominant, which gives me a tracking advantage on backhands.
The combination of eye, hand, and body dominance all plays into why my backhand feels smoother and more connected.
🧠 Expert Insight: Why Some Players Prefer Their Backhand
Through coaching experience and sports science research,
several recurring patterns explain why players sometimes excel more on their backhand side.
Here’s why your backhand might be better than your forehand:
1. Greater Non-Dominant Hand Coordination
A two-handed backhand requires active contribution from the non-dominant hand.
For many players, this creates better racket control and stability, preventing overrotation.
In fact, this added balance is one reason beginners often keep more balls in play on their backhand than forehand.
2. More Compact & Efficient Technique
The backhand stroke — especially two-handed — has a naturally shorter backswing and a defined contact point.
This reduces timing errors and makes it easier to redirect pace.
Players who tend to overhit on the forehand side often find the backhand’s structure a better fit.
3. Better Backhand Technique Through Early Eye Contact
If your dominant eye is on your backhand side, your brain processes the ball’s path slightly earlier.
This leads to cleaner timing and more consistent contact.
You can train this advantage further with tennis ball tracking drills to sharpen reaction speed.
4. Cross-Dominance Enhances Full-Body Coordination
When your dominant hand and lead foot differ, you naturally train both sides of your body to work together.
In tennis, this often translates into more balanced footwork, smoother rotations, and adaptable shot preparation.
Learn more in our guide on the science of footwork in tennis.
🦵 Your Body’s Blueprint: Dominance & Stroke Quality
Three primary dominance factors shape your tennis strokes:
- Dominant Hand – Guides swing path, grip stability, and shot feel.
- Dominant Leg – Affects recovery speed and balance during wide shots.
- Dominant Eye – Influences reaction time, depth judgment, and ball tracking.
When you understand these elements, you can stop fighting your natural tendencies and instead design your training to work with them.
🌟 Pros Known for Their Stronger Backhands
While most players rely heavily on their forehands, several ATP and WTA pros are famous for having backhands that rival —
or even surpass — their forehands. Studying them can give you ideas for improving your own game.
ATP Examples
- Novak Djokovic – Widely regarded as having one of the most complete two-handed backhands in history. His ability to redirect pace and absorb power is unmatched.
- Richard Gasquet – His one-handed backhand is a masterclass in timing, elegance, and precision.
- Stan Wawrinka – Known for a devastating one-hander that can hit winners from anywhere on the court.
WTA Examples
- Simona Halep – Her two-handed backhand is rock-solid under pressure, often dictating rallies.
- Caroline Wozniacki – Famous for consistency and depth on the backhand side, especially in defensive situations.
- Aryna Sabalenka – Uses her backhand as a weapon to generate sharp angles and finish points quickly.
📌 Tip: Watching slow-motion breakdowns of these players’ backhands can help you see the small details—grip, footwork, preparation—that make their shots so effective.
FAQ: Why Is My Backhand Better Than My Forehand?
Why is my backhand better than my forehand?
Often because the backhand (especially two-handed) has a more compact swing, less temptation to overhit, and may align better with your eye/hand dominance—leading to cleaner timing and consistency.
Does eye dominance affect whether my backhand feels easier?
Yes. If your dominant eye is on the backhand side, you typically track the ball earlier and judge depth better, which improves contact and confidence.
Can cross-dominance make my backhand more consistent?
It can. Players who are cross-dominant often coordinate rotation and balance more naturally on the backhand, which stabilizes the stroke under pace.
Why is a two-handed backhand easier to control than my forehand?
Two hands shorten the backswing and steady the racquet face, reducing face wobble and over-acceleration—so depth and direction are easier to manage.
How can I improve my forehand without losing my backhand strength?
Do focused forehand reps at 70–80% pace (cross-court, then down-the-line), add footwork patterns (split-step → unit turn → loaded step), and keep “maintenance” backhand sets so the strong side stays sharp.
Should I change rackets or strings if my backhand is stronger than my forehand?
Start with small tweaks: lower forehand-side tension 2–3 lbs (if hybrid), try a slightly softer string or thinner gauge for more dwell time, or add 2–4 g of weight at 3/9 or in the handle for stability—test one change at a time.
🎯 Final Thoughts
If your backhand feels more natural than your forehand, treat it as an asset — not a flaw.
Sure, keep building your forehand, but don’t neglect your stronger side.
In competitive play, a reliable backhand can neutralize opponents and open up winning patterns.
Choosing the right equipment can enhance this advantage even further.
The Ultimate Tennis Racket Guide walks you through how to match your racket to your playing style —
including making the most of a strong backhand.
That smooth, dependable backhand? It’s your strength. Own it.