One-Handed Backhand Footwork: Step-by-Step Movement Guide

What is so special about the one-handed backhand footwork compared to the forehand or two-handed backhand that we need to specifically talk about?

The answer is simple but subtle... It all comes down to this:

The one-handed backhand is uncomfortable to play in an open stance, so we try to avoid it as much as possible.

Unlike the forehand, which has plenty of power in an open stance, and the two-handed backhand, which in an open stance functions just fine, the one-handed backhand feels unstable and lacks power.

Therefore, the key to effective one-handed backhand footwork is learning to get into a neutral or even closed stance whenever possible, and that's why certain footwork patterns have to change.

If you do have to play a one-handed backhand in open stance, then make sure you do it right.

Surely you don't want to end up in this position on your one-handed backhand, do you?

Short Distances To The Ball - The One Step Patterns

Let’s start with the basics: the footwork is very similar across all strokes if you don’t have to move a lot or if the ball is close to you.

So, you take one step and hit from a neutral stance. This approach is simple and effective on both the forehand and one-handed backhand.

For balls that can be reached with one step, all groundstrokes can be played with the same 1-step pattern.

But the forehand has one extra option you can use.

If you prefer an open stance or if you are in a situation where the ball comes to you wider or deeper, you can comfortably play from an open stance.

You can drop down, rotate, and still generate solid power.

Hitting forehands in open stance when the ball comes close to you is very comfortable but not so much with the one-handed backhand.

That same open stance that is beneficial for the forehand may now feel unstable and off balance on the backhand side, mostly when you are trying to drive through the ball or defend under pressure.

That's why you see skilled tennis players still resort to a neutral one-handed backhand stance even when the ball comes fast at them - you'll see that later in the article.

The Medium Ball: Where Footwork Really Starts to Differ

The medium distance to the ball is the one you will play most of the time especially in singles tennis.

In this situation the ball is flying about 2-4 meters (9 to 12 feet) away from you and you cannot reach it with one step but you also don't have to run to it.

You can manage that distance in two steps and this is where the footwork patterns start to differ.

The forehand and the two-handed backhand have an easy solution since they are both comfortable and powerful in open stance.

This footwork pattern is the most common pattern on the forehand side.

Take two steps to the side, stabilize well and uncoil into the shot.

You can see this footwork pattern all the time at the pro level where players are naturally flowing into this movement with no hesitation, especially on the forehand side.

But because the one-handed backhand is more uncomfortable in open stance, we need to find a different footwork pattern to get into a neutral stance.

And that pattern is the shuffle and step in.

This "Shuffle & Step In" is the key footwork pattern you need to master on the one-handed backhand.

This is the fundamental footwork pattern for medium-distance balls on the one-handed backhand; it’s often the one most overlooked by players.

Without that initial quick shuffle — essentially a short sideways push-off — you'll either end up lunging for the ball with poor posture and balance, or you'll try to cram in three steps over a short distance, which wastes time and usually results in hitting the ball late.

It is important to remember the shuffle because if you skip it and try to force the shot, you'll feel unsteady and out of proportion. But with one quick adjustment, a step to the side, everything will align, and you’ll be back in control in no time.

The Wide Ball: Using the “1-2-3” Step Pattern

In a situation when the ball is hit really wide, you will need to cover serious ground; the footwork becomes more athletic and sturdy.

A three-step pattern is used in this case often for both strokes, the forehand and the one-hander. In this case the timing and spacing are crucial, and the technique is mostly the same on both sides.

If you move in a 3 step pattern, then the movement is the same.

The three-step pattern is constructed of:

1. Crossover step 

2. One more step towards the ball

3. Plant and hit

Are there are any exceptions moving to a really wide ball?

Yes, if the player is tall enough then they can reach almost to the sideline of the court with 2 steps and they will often choose that type of movement and hit an open stance forehand.

But on the backhand side they will likely still opt for the 3-step pattern as that gets them into the neutral stance which gives them better control and power.

Shorter Balls: Identical Patterns, Subtle Preparation

When it comes to shorter balls, the movement is again almost identical for both forehand and one-handed backhand.

Not preparing early is the biggest mistake you can make in this scenario.

Moving to short balls is also the same on both groundstrokes.

The pattern consists of:

1. Turn and step forward
2. Shuffle
3. Step in and stabilize

Players often make the mistake of running first, which results in turning late and everything feeling rushed, not allowing them to naturally follow the right path of positioning themselves.

This can be resolved with rotating first and starting your upper-body preparation early, which allows your feet to naturally follow into the right position for hitting the ball.

Deep Balls and Moving Back

On the forehand, you're perfectly capable of hitting a heavy, deep ball in an open stance even while moving backwards.

Moving diagonally backwards and hitting an open stance is not a problem on the forehand side.

It comes naturally and easily compared to the one-handed backhand, where hitting a deep ball from an open stance is much more unstable and complicated.

If you can, you’ll want to use a pattern: “back-up-then-step-in.”

In other words, take two steps back to create space, then step in again and play the shot from a neutral stance.

Take 2 steps back and then 1 forward if you have the time!

Using this pattern, you get the balance and structure that you need to control the ball even under pressure.

But what if the ball is coming too fast?

If you really have to, yes, you can play an open-stance one-hander.

If you're out of time, then you simply have to play the one-handed backhand in open stance.

But it’s tricky because your timing needs to be perfect and your body control must be excellent. However, keep in mind that it’s not something you want to rely on.

So even if your body control and topspin are good, if there's any time at all, you'll be better off backing up and stepping in, hitting a calm, controlled shot to neutralize the rally rather than trying to make the open-stance one-hander work.