Free Lessons From the Pros!
1. To learn patience, watch Ben Johns. Ben has lots of great shots, but his most underappreciated asset is his patience. Watch how he does not rush his shots, watch how many times he lets the ball drop low before dinking, and watch how he moves his feet a lot to get in the right position before hitting the ball. Patience, you have more time to hit the ball than you think.
2. To learn the topspin drop shot, watch Christian Alshon. Topspin is far more prevalent in pickleball today than it was 5 years ago. The forehand topspin drop shot is a great shot to take advantage of how topspin helps you hit a safer shot, that gets at your opponent’s feet.
3. To learn the backhand flick volley, watch AJ Koller. He puts the paddle way out in front and can hit a quick flick winner.
4. To learn the forehand topspin dink from the right side, watch Thomas Wilson or Lucy Kovalova. This is a key shot in pickleball, especially for women in mixed doubles.
5. To learn the forehand topspin dink from the left side, watch Julian Arnold. He runs around his backhand to hit forehand topspin dinks crosscourt.
6. To learn the simple forehand dink, no topspin, watch Collin Johns dink crosscourt. It is a simple motion, and he basically never misses.
7. To learn how to do Ernes, watch Federico Staksrud and Pablo Tellez play doubles. They do more Ernes as a pair than anyone.
8. To learn how to do a two-handed backhand drop, watch Riley Newman. He has the steadiest shot of this type in the game.
9. To learn a better backhand volley, watch JW Johnson. His backhand volley is as good as it gets.
Related articles
Breaking down the rules that debuted at the PPA Masters
The new year brings with it some new rules and regulations on the PPA Tour.
11 hours ago
-Will Daughton
PPA Tour referee Mark Thomas departed Masters early to battle wildfires in LA
Thomas is a veteran firefighter in San Jose with 25 years on the job.
13 hours ago
-Matt Cudzinowski
A final look at the Zimmer Biomet Masters powered by Invited
Many spectators said it had the highest level of play ever seen at a pickleball tournament.
1 days ago
-Jim Kloss
Best dressed at the Zimmer Biomet Masters powered by Invited
The all-white dress code didn't stop the pros from looking fabulous.
1 days ago
-Victoria Radnothy