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Tennis · International

Tagger details origins of her one-handed backhand

The Austrian teenager discussed a childhood technical decision and development with coach Francesca Schiavone.

Source 08 Feb 2026 Asia Mumbai, India
Tagger details origins of her one-handed backhand — report card; no event photograph has been cleared for this report
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Lilli Tagger explained how a childhood wish to emulate Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem led to her one-handed backhand. The Austrian teenager changed the stroke at twelve after winning a tournament bet with her coach, then spent roughly a year adapting to the technique.

Tagger moved to train in Italy at thirteen and later began working with Francesca Schiavone, another prominent one-handed player. She credited the former Roland Garros champion with helping her game understanding and mental approach during her recent development.

Her progress included the 2025 French Open junior title, four ITF trophies and a first tour final in Jiujiang. Tagger’s immediate ambition was direct entry to the French Open women’s draw as she continued climbing the rankings.

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