Del Potro Reviews ATP World Tour Forehands

Despite possessing one of the most fearsome forehands in history, Juan Martin del Potro is not convinced his signature groundstroke is the best on the ATP World Tour .

The World No. 6, whose forehand has been compared to Thor’s hammer on social media by rival Roger Federer, shared his thoughts on the ‘Best ATP World Tour forehand’ debate after beating Dusan Lajovic 6-3, 6-3 at the Mutua Madrid Open on Tuesday.

“I cannot say that my forehand is the best forehand on the tour,” confessed Del Potro. “I think that Federer has a great forehand. And Rafa of course, too. I think that we have three different styles of playing. The ball of the three of us flies differently. Some hit with more topspin, others hit flatter.”

The Tower of Tandil also shared his amusement at the reactions he receives from enthusiastic fans when hitting his most recognised shot.

“When I strike the ball hard, when the people cheer or shout, I just laugh because I have the control of the shot,” said Del Potro. “I’m also enjoying that the people enjoy it or that they cheer me on or shout whenever I hit one of my good forehands.”

Whether his destructive version of the most common shot in the game would take ultimately win gold, silver or bronze in the age-old debate is irrelevant to the BNP Paribas Open champion however. Del Potro simply enjoys the connection it brings between himself and his loyal fanbase.

“I like that feeling with the people, the connection I have with the people that are supporting me,” shared Del Potro.