In the ever-evolving game of pickleball, players are continuously seeking techniques that can give them a competitive edge. Players are increasingly hitting their drop shots with more spin, more power, and better placement. One such aggressive drop shot seen on the pickleball court is a top spin drop. This shot, when executed correctly, can be a game-changer, offering heightened control and strategic advantage.
The top spin drop is a shot that is intended to land in or around the Kitchen and that has forward spin that is traveling from 6 o’clock to 12 o’clock toward the opposing team. The top spin on the pickleball will cause the drop to (1) take a harder “bite” out of the air down toward the court, and (2) take a bigger bounce off of the court (or off of the opposing player’s pickleball paddle). As a result, your opponent is likely to struggle with the increased speed and unexpected trajectory, making this shot an invaluable asset in your arsenal.
Benefits of the Top Spin Drop Shot
The primary advantage of the topspin drop shot lies in its deceptive nature. Unlike a standard drop shot that gently caresses the net and hopes to land softly in your opponent’s court, the topspin drop comes in fast and low, pushing your adversary to scramble. Additionally, the topspin creates a steep dive once the ball is airborne, catching players off-guard and forcing them into a defensive position.
Moreover, this shot can keep your opponent guessing by varying your gameplay. By alternating between standard drop shots and top spin drops, you maintain unpredictability, making it tougher for your opponent to anticipate your next move.
Tips to Hit a Top Spin Drop Shot Effectively
1. Positioning – Approach your shot as you would with a basic drop shot. Position yourself behind the pickleball with your body slightly turned, initiating a backswing. For the topspin drop shot, keep your wrist firm.
2. Paddle Preparation – Once in position, bring your paddle out in front of your body. Ensure your paddle is slightly lowered, with the face slightly closed. This is a crucial difference from both basic drops and inside-out shots.
3. Technique – With a confident swing, brush the backside of the pickleball from low to high. Imagine you’re sanding the ball with sandpaper; this technique generates the necessary topspin and speed.
4. Follow-Through – Conclude your shot with an upward motion, guiding your paddle through and above the pickleball while slightly crossing your body. This movement not only aids in imparting the topspin but also ensures you maintain control over the ball’s direction.
Stay mindful that the contact point should always remain in front of your body, ideally between your waist and knees. Mastering this technique will take practice, but the reward is undeniably worth the effort.
In conclusion, the topspin drop shot is a powerful tool in your pickleball playbook. By mastering it, you will not only enhance your gameplay but also keep your opponents guessing, increasing your chances of victory on the court.
WANT MORE PICKLEBALL TIPS AND STRATEGIES?
For more on perfecting your third shot, check out The Pickler’s Blog, “When to Drive or Drop Your Third Shot on the Pickleball Court.”
Plus, if you want more pickleball tips and strategies on every aspect of your pickleball game, check out Pickler’s online video lesson collection called My Pro Pickleball Coach. My Pro Pickleball Coach is a fraction of the price of one clinic or even one lesson, and features over 140 video lessons (over 7 hours of instruction!), as well as a corresponding e-book. These online video lessons are available on demand 24/7 and breakdown every aspect of the sport of pickleball, including pickleball drills, strategy, and advanced concepts, so you will play your best pickleball.
