Pickleball Drop Shot - How to a Drop Shot

AI image of pickleball players that love the third shot drop

Hitting a drop shot in pickleball requires finesse and control to make the ball land just over the net and within the opponent’s non-volley zone (kitchen). This is a critical shot to master in pickleball for advancement to the 3.5+ skill level.

Preferred Grip

Continental Grip. Paddle is in neutral position. Easier to position for shot.

Stance and Preparation

Get to the ball and position your feet shoulder-width apart with your knees slightly bent. Maintain a balanced stance.
Turn your body sideways to the net, with your non-dominant shoulder facing the target.
Stabilize yourself, it is better to not be moving your feet when you start your swing on this delicate shot.
Your paddle should be in front of you, ready to make contact with the ball.

Swing Technique

Take a short backswing, keeping your paddle face slightly open (tilted upward).
Shift your weight slightly from your back foot to your front foot as you prepare to swing.
Contact the ball in front of your body. Watch the ball start to drop from its highest point and as it is descending use a gentle, controlled swing to lift the ball over the net. The motion should be smooth and slow, focusing on placing the ball rather than hitting it hard.
Follow through with a short, upward motion. If you have a good top spin or cut shot use this shot type delicately, otherwise just hit a flat shot with no spin.
Your paddle should finish just above the net level, ensuring the ball lands softly in the opponent’s non-volley zone.

Key Points to Remember

The drop shot requires a delicate touch. Focus on control and feel rather than power. Let the ball start to drop before hitting it. Hitting the ball at its highest point will tend to cause you to hit it too high and deep.
Aim to place the ball just over the net, making it difficult for your opponent to reach and return.

Hi, Payton Bond here

If you're aiming for the 3.5+ level and want to play with more clarity and confidence, this guide might be just what you need. It's full of practical strategies, court illustrations, and mental tips that helped me—and many others—break through.

Whether you're working on your third shot, dinking decisions, or how to handle pressure points, this guide is meant to simplify things and give you an edge.

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