Third Shot Drop

A New Rule for Backhand Decision-Making

January 07 2025


If you’re not using two hands on your backhand, then the game might be passing you by. Many pros and high-level players use two hands to add power and stability to their backhand shots.

But how do you decide when to add that second hand?

Eddie Gonzalez provided a quick guide to help make the decision easy. If you’re established at the kitchen line and your opponent is trying to approach:

Use one hand:

  • To extend your reach into the kitchen and prevent their drop from hitting the ground
  • Use a roll to pick the ball out of the air and keep your opponent back in the court

Use two hands:

  • When the drop bounces to hit an aggressive fourth shot
  • To counter a hard-hit drive with power and stability

Rest your paddle on your non-dominant hand in your ready position so you’re ready to react at a moment’s notice. Use the length of the one-handed backhand and the power of the two-handed backhand to keep the pressure on your opponent whether they drop or drive.

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