Teo Davidov was one of the most talked-about figures at this year’s US Open, not for flashy dress or off-court drama but for an unorthodox playing method: the 16-year-old from Denver hits forehands from both wings and eschews the conventional backhand.
Davidov’s approach is possible because he is ambidextrous — he can use either hand to execute the same stroke — and he has taken that capability to its logical extreme. He is reportedly the only competitor at the tournament, across men’s, women’s and junior draws, to rely exclusively on forehands in match play. He also serves from both sides depending on the situation, altering the usual pattern opponents expect.
Technique and tactics
The mechanical advantage Davidov seeks is straightforward: many players consider the forehand a more natural, powerful and reliable shot than the backhand, so using two forehands can theoretically remove the weaker wing from an opponent’s game plan. Serving from either side can change angles and rhythm on returns, forcing rivals to adapt in real time.
Davidov himself has said the choice is practical rather than ideological. “To be honest, I like the traditional backhand-forehand,” he told reporters, adding that he enjoys hitting backhands "just to play around, just for fun" and that he can execute them from both sides. His statement underlines that the experiment is a deliberate tactical decision rather than a rejection of conventional technique.
Reaction and implications
The ambidextrous strategy has prompted a mix of bemusement and serious interest among players, coaches and commentators. Some see it as a novel exploitation of a physical advantage that could reshape short-term tactics in a match. Others view it as an intriguing experiment whose long-term viability for elite-level consistency and development remains to be seen.
Whatever the ultimate verdict, Davidov’s presence at a major tournament has highlighted how individual physical traits and creative thinking can lead to fresh approaches in a sport often defined by tradition. His experiment raises broader questions about coaching, player development and whether alternative styles can be scaled beyond isolated cases.
Next steps
As Davidov continues his junior career, observers will watch both results and technique: whether the two-forehand model can withstand sustained pressure from top opponents, and whether other young players or coaches adopt elements of his approach. For now, his performance at the US Open has offered a reminder that tennis still accommodates invention on court, even at the highest-profile events.