Third Shot Drop

Topspin Masterclass from a Pro

January 23 2025


Adding topspin to your pickleball game keeps opponents on their back foot and improves shot consistency. By brushing upward on the back of the ball, topspin creates a forward spin that causes the ball to dip quickly into the court, letting you hit harder while staying in bounds.

Here’s how to do it, straight from PPA Pro Eric Roddy:

When to Use Topspin

You can use topspin in serves, dinks, third-shot drops, drives, and volleys—whenever you’re not in a defensive position. However, if you're under pressure, prioritize consistency over spin to avoid errors.

Example: If an opponent’s hard return bounces near your baseline, opt for a controlled flat third-shot drop rather than risking a topspin shot.

Technique: Keep It Simple

  1. Limit Your Backswing: A big backswing can lead to timing issues. Keep it compact and use your core and legs for power.
  2. Subtle Wrist Action: Think of lightly waving at the ball with your palm down. Avoid extreme wrist motion, as it reduces control.
  3. Brush and Follow Through:Gently brush upward on the ball while following through to maintain consistency and spin.

Build Variety Gradually

Start with easier shots like topspin volleys and drives before moving to advanced techniques like topspin dinks. Mix spin and flat shots to keep your game unpredictable and exploit opponents’ weaknesses.

Pro Tip: Use Training Tools

Tools like the SpinPro Pickleball Trainercan accelerate your learning curve by reinforcing the correct paddle angles and helping you develop muscle memory.

So If you’re tired of chasing rogue pickleballs, grab a SpinPro Trainer. It’s like having a coach who doesn’t yell at you!

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