Roger Federer

Roger Federer's backhand is the reference point: a compact take-back, a still head and a long, relaxed finish, hit flat, with topspin or sliced with equal ease. For years it was the side rivals targeted, especially Rafael Nadal's high left-handed forehand on clay. Federer answered with a bigger racket from 2014 and by stepping in to take the ball earlier. Twenty Grand Slam singles titles show the stroke could win, but also needed protecting.