Andy Roddick is working hard to desperately get back to top. He is moving forward much more effectively and thus winning more points at the net. However, despite the addition of Jimmy Connors, his changes of becoming #1 again is next to impossible simply because his backhand is not much more than an utility. It works fine and is generally good for defensive shots but is not a weapon by any stretch of the imagination. Although he hit a great backhand on the run to end the match against Gimelstob tonight, it was a flick more than the execution of a world class backhand. He has a junior backhand and despite his serve and new penchant for coming to the net he will not move to the top. If we draw a parallel to Federer's career, he did not rise to the top until he shored up that backhand. Andy and his camp must realize that he has to do the same. Otherwise, he will never win a Grand Slam again.
The Tennis Fanatic Speaks
