What Is A Drop Shot In Pickleball? (Strategy & Drills)

A drop shot in pickleball is a soft, strategic shot intended to arc the ball over the net so that it lands gently in the opponent's non-volley zone. This shot is designed to give the player time to advance to the net and position themselves better for the next play. It's typically executed from mid-court as part of a transition play to the net.

What is A Drop Shot in Pickleball?

The drop shot is a skill that often distinguishes advanced players from beginners in pickleball. While challenging to master, it is undoubtedly one of the essential shots for players at all levels to perfect.

Contrary to the common belief, drop shots in pickleball are not typically executed from the baseline. Instead, they are more effectively played from mid-court or as a player approaches the non-volley zone, also known as the kitchen.

The objective of a drop shot is to softly arc the ball over the net so that it lands gently in the opponent’s non-volley zone. This technique allows the player to advance to the net, positioning themselves for offensive play while simultaneously forcing the opponent to respond with a less aggressive shot, often putting them on the defensive.

Types of Drop Shot

1. The Basic Drop Shot: This is the foundational drop shot aimed to land softly in the opponent’s non-volley zone (kitchen).
2. The Third Shot Drop: One of the most crucial shots in pickleball, the third shot drop is used after the serve and the return. Its purpose is to allow the serving team to advance to the net.
3. The Cross-Court Drop: This variation involves hitting the ball diagonally across the court into the opponent’s kitchen. The added distance due to the diagonal trajectory gives the player more time to approach the net.
4. The Sideline Drop: This drop shot aims close to the sidelines of the non-volley zone. It’s effective for stretching your opponent out wide, making their return more challenging.
5. The Soft Angle Drop: Similar to the cross-court drop but with a sharper angle, this shot is used to force the opponent further off the court.
6. The Deep Drop: Aiming for the far end of the kitchen, the deep drop shot forces the opponent to move back towards their baseline or stretch to hit a low ball.
7. The Dink Drop: This is a softer, more refined drop shot played from closer to the net, often during a dink rally. The aim is to suddenly change the pace and trajectory of the ball, making it drop just over the net in the opponent’s kitchen to win the point or gain a strategic advantage.

Mastering these drop shots requires practice and a good understanding of when each is most effective.

How Do You Hit A Drop Shot?

Here’s how to hit a drop shot:

1. Stay low to the ball and bend your knees
2. Put your weight on your front foot
3. Position the open face of the paddle in front of your body
4. Use a low-to-high “lifting” motion
5. Follow through (a little more than a dink)

The continental grip is typically the most advantageous grip for drop shots because the paddle face stays open.

Watch the video below for more effective tips:

When Should You Use A Drop Shot?

Using a drop shot in pickleball is a strategic decision that can significantly impact the flow of the game. Here are key situations when a drop shot should be considered:

1. Transitioning to the Net: The drop shot is most effective when you’re moving from the baseline towards the non-volley zone. It gives you time to approach the net while the ball is in play, positioning you for a stronger offensive stance.
2. Against a Baseline Opponent: When your opponent is positioned at the baseline or deep in their court, a well-placed drop shot can force them to rush forward, often resulting in a less controlled return that you can capitalize on.
3. Resetting the Point: If the rally becomes too fast-paced or if you find yourself in a defensive position, a drop shot can slow down the game. It allows you to regain control and reset the point, moving the game back to a softer, more strategic pace.
4. Breaking Opponent’s Momentum: When your opponent has the momentum, a sudden drop shot can disrupt their rhythm. Changing the pace of the game can be crucial in breaking their focus and reclaiming control of the rally.
5. Exploiting Weaknesses: If you notice your opponent struggles with forward movement or low shots, the drop shot can exploit these weaknesses. It forces them to make a difficult play, increasing your chances of winning the point.
6. Creating Angles: A drop shot doesn’t always have to land straight ahead in the opponent’s non-volley zone. You can also use it to create angles, making it even more challenging for your opponent to return the shot effectively.

Drop Shots vs. Dinks

While both dinks and drop shots target the opponent’s non-volley zone, dinks are short-range shots for close net play, and drop shots are transitional shots that help you move to the net from farther back in the court.

Both require precision and a strategic understanding of their respective roles in game play.

Make sure also to read our article on drop shots vs. dinks.

9 effective Tips to Improve Your Drop Shot

Improving your drop shots in pickleball involves practice, technique refinement, and strategic understanding:

1. Focus on Form: Ensure your paddle face is open slightly upward to help lift the ball over the net with the necessary arc. Keep your wrist firm and use your arm to guide the shot.
2. Practice Touch and Control: Work on developing a soft touch. The drop shot requires finesse rather than power. Practice by hitting the ball with just enough force to clear the net and land softly in the opponent’s non-volley zone.
3. Use Your Legs: Bend your knees slightly to lower your center of gravity. This position allows for better balance and control when executing the drop shot.
4. Aim for the Right Spot: Target a spot just over the net within the opponent’s non-volley zone. Aiming for the kitchen line can help reduce the risk of hitting the ball too long.
5. Follow Through: A controlled follow-through is crucial for a successful drop shot. Extend your arm toward the target to guide the ball, but keep the motion smooth and restrained.
6. Watch the Ball: Keep your eyes on the ball until the moment you hit it. This focus helps improve accuracy and timing.
7. Adjust for Opponent’s Position: Be mindful of where your opponents are on the court. If they’re far back, a softer drop shot can be more effective. If they’re closer to the net, a slightly firmer drop might be necessary to prevent them from easily volleying the ball.
8. Mental Visualization: Before playing, visualize executing the perfect drop shot. Mental practice can enhance your physical performance and confidence.
9. Drill Regularly: Incorporate drop shot drills into your practice sessions. One effective drill is to practice drop shots from mid-court, aiming to land the ball in the kitchen consistently.

Check out pro pickleball player and coach Will East’s drill to improve your third shot drop:

Improving your drop shots is a continuous process that combines technique, strategy, and mental focus. By applying these tips and committing to regular practice, you’ll develop a more effective and reliable drop shot in your pickleball game.