If you’ve ever found yourself slicing every backhand dink and wondering if there’s a better way to control the ball, there is. Enter the two-handed backhand dink—a shot that’s gaining popularity for its versatility, control, and ability to put opponents on the back foot.
Let’s break down why you should consider adding it to your game, how to execute it, and when it’s the right choice.
Why Use the Two-Handed Backhand Dink?
The two-handed backhand dink comes with its pros and cons, but trust me—it’s absolutely worth adding to your game. It might take some practice to get comfortable, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Let’s break it down and look at the pros and cons so you can see why this shot deserves a spot in your arsenal.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Topspin for Aggression: Adds spin that dips the ball sharply after crossing the net, making it tough to counter. | Shorter Reach: Two hands limit how far you can extend compared to a one-handed backhand. |
| Consistency: Topspin creates a forgiving arc, so even slightly high shots stay in play. | Footwork Matters: You need solid positioning to execute it well. |
| Disguise and Speedups: Easily transition from a dink to a surprise speedup. | Less Versatility: Defensive resets or flicks can feel clunky with two hands. |
If you’re looking to mix control with offense and want a shot that keeps your opponents guessing, the two-handed backhand dink is a great addition to your toolbox. But it’s not for every situation—more on that later!
How to Execute a Two-Handed Backhand Dink
Alright, ready to give this shot a try? Let’s walk through the steps:
- Grip:
- Bottom Hand: Use a continental grip.
- Top Hand: Use an eastern grip for added control. Make sure your hands touch but don’t overlap—this gives you better leverage.
- Stance and Positioning:
- Face your target. Don’t turn sideways!
- Bend your knees deeply. This keeps you stable and helps generate upward power.
- Contact Point:
- Hit the ball between the back and bottom for topspin.
- For crosscourt shots, aim for the outside of the ball to add side spin.
- Swing:
- Use your non-dominant hand (top hand) for about 75% of the power. Your dominant hand is just along for the ride.
- Swing low to high, brushing the ball to create spin.
- Follow Through:
- Finish with your paddle above the net level, aiming toward your target.
Pro Tip: Practice hitting with only your non-dominant hand to build strength and control. Once you’re comfortable, add your dominant hand for stability.
Coach Tanner Tomassi shares top-notch tips to master the two-handed backhand—quick, effective, and all in under 60 seconds:
When to Use a Two-Handed Backhand Dink vs. a Slice Dink
Knowing when to use each shot is key to keeping your opponents on their toes. Here’s a quick guide:
| Two-Handed Backhand Dink | Slice Dink |
|---|---|
| Use when the ball is close to your body and at a comfortable height. | Use when you’re stretched or out of position. |
| Best for aggressive play—roll it crosscourt, down the line, or through the middle. | Great for defense—buy time and reset the rally. |
| Ideal for neutral or attackable balls. | Effective against topspin dinks to slow down the rally. |
Pro Tip: If the ball bounces closer to your inside foot, use the two-hander. If it’s farther out, go with a one-handed slice for more reach.
4 Advanced Tips for the Two-Handed Backhand Dink
Here’s where the magic happens—using the two-handed backhand dink to dominate the kitchen.
- Mix It Up:
- Alternate between topspin and slice dinks to disrupt your opponent’s rhythm.
- Switch between crosscourt and down-the-line shots to create openings.
- Disguise Your Speedup:
- Use the same setup for a dink and a speedup. For an easy winner, aim the speedup down the middle to cause confusion.
- Footwork is Everything:
- Good positioning is key. If you’re off-balance, switch to a one-handed dink for better control.
- Target the Outside of the Ball:
- For sharper angles and more spin, make contact on the outer edge of the ball.
3 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best players make mistakes with this shot. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Forcing the Two-Hander:
- Don’t try to use it for every backhand. If the ball is too far away, switch to a one-handed dink.
- Ignoring Your Non-Dominant Hand:
- Most of the power and spin come from your top hand. Practice using it independently to build strength.
- Over-Relying on Spin:
- Spin is great, but placement and consistency matter more.
Here’s a simple and effective solo drill to help you sharpen your two-handed backhand dinks:
My Take on the Two-Handed Backhand Dink
The two-handed backhand dink might feel awkward at first, but with practice, it can become one of the most versatile and powerful tools in your pickleball arsenal. It’s all about knowing when to use it, how to mix it up, and putting in the reps to make it second nature.
Bonus Tip: Try alternating between one-handed and two-handed dinks during drills. This will improve your ability to switch seamlessly in matches, making you an unpredictable and challenging opponent.
Now get out there, bend those knees, and start owning the kitchen! 🏓
