In the golden era of women’s tennis, few rivalries captured the imagination like Steffi Graf vs. Gabriela Sabatini. But beyond their intense matches, these two legends shared something truly iconic — their breathtaking one-handed backhands.
Graf, known for her lightning-quick footwork and lethal forehand, often overshadowed her backhand with sheer dominance. Yet her sliced one-handed backhand was a masterclass in control and disruption, slicing through rallies with laser precision and forcing opponents off balance.
Sabatini, the Argentine powerhouse, wielded her one-hander with flair and fluidity. Where Graf’s was clinical and strategic, Sabatini’s backhand radiated style and aggression. Her ability to unleash topspin with elegance made her a fan favorite, a player who brought artistry to the court with every stroke.
Together, they didn’t just hit backhands — they elevated the shot to legendary status. Their rivalry showcased the beauty of contrast: power and finesse, speed and rhythm, dominance and resilience. And through it all, their one-handed backhands became symbols of timeless tennis brilliance.
In today’s era of double-fisted backhands and baseline slugfests, Graf and Sabatini’s single-handed masterpieces remain etched in tennis history — a reminder of the elegance and power that defined a golden age. Their legacy lives on, not just in titles, but in the graceful arc of a perfectly struck one-handed backhand.
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