Lilli Tagger revives the one-handed backhand and excites the tennis world with her title in Prague

Lilli Tagger can now boast of being a WTA champion. At just 18 years old, the promising Austrian talent conquered the WTA 250 in Prague 2026 by defeating Daria Snigur in the final by 7-6(3) and 6-3. This success confirms her rapid progression and places her in the Top-50 as the youngest player currently among the top 50 in the world.

Tagger had been showing clear signs of her enormous potential, but what happened in Prague represents a qualitative leap. After overcoming Barbora Krejcikova in a marathon semifinal, the Austrian managed to handle the pressure of a final and defeat Snigur in two sets to kick off her professional career.

Lilli Tagger, a unique talent who is already 45th in the world

The most exciting thing is witnessing how her tennis continues to evolve. Tagger is increasing the power of her shots without giving up a natural variety that sets her apart from many players of her generation. She changes heights, directions, and effects with great ease and is achieving it with increasing consistency.

With her title in Prague, 18-year-old Lilli Tagger becomes:

- The youngest player in the WTA top 50
- The highest-ranked player with a one-handed backhand in the WTA rankings

Women's tennis has a new rising star! 🌟🇦🇹 pic.twitter.com/USIJ8pt0aJ

— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) July 26, 2026

A special mention goes to her spectacular one-handed backhand. In a women's circuit where this shot has practically become extinct, the Austrian has a recognizable trait that adds beauty to her game and can significantly increase her charisma and media impact as she continues to grow.

The title also leads to a significant leap in rankings. Lilli Tagger is now ranked 45th in the world, entering for the first time into a territory that will allow her to access increasingly important tournaments.

At 18 years old, she still has countless aspects to develop, and it is advisable to manage expectations. However, Prague leaves a certainty: Tagger is no longer just a promising junior showing potential. She is a WTA champion, in the Top-50, and is beginning to emerge as a potential star in women's tennis.