Denis Shapovalov has highlighted a disadvantage in his career that he believes traces back to Roger Federer’s influence.
The Canadian was once seen as one of the game’s most exciting young prospects, but that early promise hasn’t materialised into consistent results. Injuries have played a part, but even before those setbacks, he struggled to find regular form at the top level.
When he’s on, he still has the tools to challenge anyone. The problem is, those days have become few and far between.
After reaching the quarterfinals in Dallas, though, there are signs that Shapovalov could still turn things around.
Speaking after his win over Christopher Eubanks on Thursday night, Shapovalov explained how growing up idolising Federer shaped his approach to tennis – for better or worse.
Denis Shapovalov points to Roger Federer influence as key disadvantage
Shapovalov discussed his one-handed backhand during an interview with TennisONE, highlighting both its strengths and limitations.
While he sees clear advantages, the Canadian recognises why the shot has become less common in today’s game.
He said: “In a way, it’s a strength because you can definitely generate more power, can get sharper angles, and be more flashy/creative with a one-handed backhand.
“But, in today’s game, it’s very much heading towards the way of having a solid two-handed backhand and generating with the forehand. The game is so quick today, it helps to have that extra arm on the backhand.
“That’s why it’s so much more rare to see guys that have one-handed backhands….I blame Roger Federer. I grew up watching him and wanted to play like him so that’s definitely a big reason why I have a one-hander.”
The story isn’t all good news for Canadians though as Felix Auger Aliassime is now out of action due to injury. He was forced to retire from his match against Daniel Altmaier when he rolled over his ankle in Set 1 at Indian Wells.
How Roger Federer changed the look of tennis
Even though the one-handed backhand isn’t as common these days, it’s still seen at the highest levels.
A lot of that has to do with Roger Federer.
Grigor Dimitrov was given the nickname ‘Baby Fed’ early in his career, and Stefanos Tsitsipas once said: “To me, one-handed backhand always felt like the classic shot. I saw it on TV. I thought, that’s the classic shot.
“I was pretty young to watch Roger Federer matches, but I do remember him later when I was about six years old. To me, it was a shot selection that I chose at eight years old.”
Dominic Thiem also spoke about how much Federer influenced him, saying: “Maybe in terms of the game he was the biggest inspiration obviously thanks to the one-handed backhand because he’s the only one of the three, along with Nadal and Djokovic, to have that stroke.”
There’s no doubt about Federer’s impact on tennis. Still, it’s a bit surprising to see his trademark shot becoming less common in today’s game.
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