For newer and intermediate players, the return of serve might seem straightforward—just get it over the net. But if you want to improve your game and win more points, learning where to hit your return is key.
Why Return Placement Matters
The return of serve sets the tone for the rally. A strong, well-placed return forces your opponents to stay back and can give you time to take control of the net—a crucial advantage in pickleball. But poor placement? That often hands your opponents an easy third shot.
For players in the 2.0–3.5 range, focus on consistency first. Once you’re landing your returns regularly, begin working on strategic placement to take your game to the next level.
Where to Hit Your Returns
1. Deep to the Baseline
- Why It Works: A deep return keeps your opponents at the baseline, making it harder for them to execute an effective third shot. This gives you and your partner more time to move to the kitchen line.
- Pro Tip: Aim 3–5 feet inside the baseline to reduce the risk of hitting long.
Check out these awesome tips on serve returns, including a handy trick for practicing deep returns:
2. Crosscourt
- Why It Works: A crosscourt return gives you more margin for error since the net is lower in the middle and the diagonal angle is longer. It also pulls your opponent wide, creating opportunities to exploit the middle of the court.
- Pro Tip: Use a gentle swing to add depth and make it harder for your opponent to attack.
3. At Your Opponent’s Backhand
- Why It Works: Most players at this level have weaker backhands, making it more likely they’ll give you a soft return or pop-up.
- Pro Tip: Watch during warmups to see which side your opponent struggles with and target it.
What to Avoid
- Short Returns
- These allow your opponents to attack with a drive or set up for an easy drop shot. Focus on hitting with more depth and a relaxed swing.
- High Returns
- Lofty returns give your opponents extra time to prepare and can lead to aggressive third-shot drives.
- Predictable Patterns
- Hitting every return to the same spot makes it easy for your opponents to anticipate and adjust.
4 Practical Tips for Better Returns
- Use a Relaxed Swing: Tension leads to errors. Keep your grip light and use a smooth motion to control the ball.
- Stay Ready: Position yourself slightly behind the baseline and lean forward with your knees bent. This helps you react quickly and adjust to different serves.
- Practice Depth Control: Work on hitting your returns deep into the court without overhitting. Try aiming for the last third of the court in practice games.
- Focus on Footwork: Move your feet to get into position for every return. Don’t rely on reaching—it leads to mishits.
Advice for 2.0–3.5 Players
- 2.0–2.5 Players: Focus on consistency. Simply getting the ball over the net and aiming deep will make a big difference at this level. Don’t worry too much about spin or fancy placement yet.
- 3.0 Players: Start targeting weaker players or backhands to gain an edge. Practice crosscourt returns to reduce errors and open up angles.
- 3.5 Players: Experiment with topspin or slice returns to make the ball harder to handle. Work on transitioning quickly to the net after your return to take control of the rally.
Take Control with Smart Returns
At 2.0–3.5 levels, improving your return of serve can lead to quick wins and better positioning in every rally. Focus on consistency, aim for depth, and start experimenting with placement as your skills grow.
With practice, your returns can become a powerful weapon—and the key to winning more points!
