Stefanos Tsitsipas heads into the US Open fourth round with more than a quarter-final berth on the line. The Greek star is the last man in the men’s draw using a one-handed backhand, and the continuation of a 150-year trend now rests with him.
Every year since Wimbledon’s first edition in 1877, at least one player with a one-handed backhand has reached a men’s singles semi-final at a Grand Slam. That run is in danger in 2026 after none advanced to the last four at the Australian Open, Roland Garros or Wimbledon. With Denis Shapovalov eliminated by eighth seed Ben Shelton on Friday, Tsitsipas is the only remaining hope to extend the streak in New York.
Historical Stakes for Tsitsipas
Tsitsipas faces Shelton on Sunday for a place in the last eight, marking his first appearance in the fourth round at a major since 2024. He acknowledged the historical stakes on social media earlier this week and has embraced the added pressure that comes with representing a dwindling shot style.
After his second-round win over Lloyd Harris, Tsitsipas discussed the decline of the one-handed backhand and said he does not plan to adopt hybrid tactics seen elsewhere on tour, such as using a two-hander on returns before switching mid-rally. He stressed that the one-hander demands sharp preparation, precise footwork and clean timing, noting that the two-hander can be more forgiving when a player is late to the ball.
A 13-time ATP Tour title winner and two-time Grand Slam finalist, the 28-year-old former world No. 3 is known for his powerful serve and attacking baseline game. In New York, he is also chasing another milestone: becoming the first men’s major champion with a one-handed backhand since Dominic Thiem won the 2020 US Open.
A victory over Shelton would keep the historic streak alive for at least another round; a defeat would end it for the first time in a century and a half. As Tsitsipas continues his quest, tennis fans around the world will be watching closely to see if he can maintain this storied tradition.