If you’re anything like most pickleball players, you probably lean heavily on the traditional forehand serve. And why wouldn’t you? It’s reliable, powerful, and feels comfortable. But what if I told you that the often-overlooked backhand serve could be the hidden gem that takes your game to the next level?
Let’s dive into why and how the backhand serve might just be the secret weapon you’ve been missing.
When and Why a Backhand Serve Works
The backhand serve may not be the most commonly used tool in the pickleball world, but this rarity is exactly what makes it powerful. When your opponent is expecting a forehand serve, switching it up with a backhand serve can completely catch them off guard. The surprise factor is a huge advantage. Think of it as an ace up your sleeve that you only pull out when you really want to throw off your opponent’s rhythm.
Another reason to consider the backhand serve is the spin. This serve naturally creates a different spin than a forehand serve, and spin can be an incredible way to make your opponent uncomfortable. A well-placed backhand serve can generate an angled, crosscourt trajectory that’s tricky to handle—especially if your opponents are stacking or switching sides. It keeps your opponent guessing and breaks the monotony, adding an unexpected element that forces them to adapt.
If you’ve ever struggled with the dreaded “yips” on your forehand serve, a backhand serve can be a lifesaver. The motion is often smoother, almost like a relaxed backhand swing, and can feel more natural if you’re having trouble controlling your forehand serve.
Take a look at the proper wrist, hand, and shoulder motion for nailing a perfect backhand serve:
What Skill Level Should Use It?
The backhand serve is versatile. Beginners can definitely give it a try, as it doesn’t require excessive power and allows for a more controlled, finesse shot. Since the main focus is placement and spin rather than brute strength, the backhand serve is also gentle on your shoulder. If you’re still learning, it can add a useful dimension to your serving game without risking injury.
For intermediate and advanced players, the backhand serve adds unpredictability. The more ways you have to challenge your opponent’s comfort zone, the better your chances of controlling the point. Mixing in a backhand serve keeps your opponent from settling into a rhythm—a key factor when playing against experienced competitors who are great at anticipating your moves.
Where to Aim the Backhand Serve
Placement is crucial for a successful backhand serve. If you’re serving from the even side of the court and you’re right-handed, aim to create a crosscourt angle. A good target is the far sideline of your opponent’s side of the court. This will either force them wide, making them run and potentially mishit, or create an opportunity for you to take control of the rally.
If your opponents are stacking (meaning they’re positioning themselves in a way to get their preferred sides after the serve), you can also target the spot that makes them switch sides, increasing their chances of confusion. The key is to be unpredictable—serve deep, serve wide, or serve short. Keep them on their toes.
What Type of Backhand Serve to Hit
There are a few ways to approach a backhand serve in pickleball, depending on what you’re comfortable with and what works against your specific opponents. The traditional backhand volley serve requires you to keep your arm relaxed and swing from the shoulder, making sure to generate an upward arc with the paddle. It’s important that your paddle head remains below your wrist and waist when striking the ball—a rule enforced by the USAPA to keep serves legal.
For players who find it challenging to get the ball toss right, consider a drop serve. With this technique, you simply drop the ball and hit it after it bounces, making it easier to maintain a legal serving motion. While this might take away some of the surprise factor since there’s a small delay, it adds consistency, which can be key in certain game situations.
A fun aspect of the backhand serve is the spin you can put on the ball. Depending on how you angle your paddle, you can create a spin that moves from right to left, particularly useful if the wind is on your side. You can even pull off a slice, which keeps the ball low and tricky for your opponent to return effectively. The beauty here is that you have multiple variations at your disposal.
Take a look at this incredible two-handed backhand serve:
Tips for Getting Started
- Practice with Consistency: As with any new shot, practice makes perfect. Focus on getting the ball over the net and into the correct area of the court, even if you have to take power off initially. The goal is to build muscle memory.
- Play with Spin: Start experimenting with different spins once you’re comfortable with the basic serve. It’s all about keeping your opponent guessing.
- Relax Your Body: A backhand serve is more about finesse than power. Relax your shoulders and take a step into the serve to let your body do the work, rather than trying to swing too hard.
- Mix It Up: Use the backhand serve to add variety, but don’t overuse it. Its effectiveness comes from surprise, so throw it in strategically.
The Beauty of the Backhand Serve
Incorporating a backhand serve into your pickleball game might seem unconventional, but that’s exactly why it works. It’s the unexpected element that can catch your opponent off guard, especially in crucial moments. Whether you’re just getting started or are a seasoned player looking for an edge, the backhand serve can be a valuable addition to your repertoire.
So, why not give it a try during your next game? You might find that it becomes a reliable tool in your arsenal—and one that just might turn the tide of a match in your favor.
