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James Ignatowich
Top 5 Pro player James Ignatowich
Hey guys, this is James Ignatowich, now we are going to talk about when to put two hands on the backhand. Where I always put two hands on the backhand is my return of serve.
If you try to go over the ball with a one-handed backhand on the return of serve, it’s going to be increasingly more difficult the harder the serve gets. And you can be sure that the serve is getting pretty powerful these days. If you try to put a one-handed backhand on your return of serve, you’re probably going to be in a tough spot.
Why You Shouldn’t Slice the Return
Also, I generally teach to not slice the return of serve—because your slice is my Top Spin. And again, there are no strings on the pickleball paddle, so any spin that our opponent is giving us is very important as it relates to our own shot.
At the higher levels, I definitely do not teach a return with slice. I think you can get away with a slice return of serve below the 4.5 level, but in general—especially if you’re planning on getting better—I would say a two-handed backhand return is important.
Top Spin and Stability with the Left Hand
You’re getting a little bit of Top Spin with two hands, but also the left hand helps you come through the ball. Because on the return, you are actively moving through the shot.
The return of serve is the only shot in pickleball where you are basically required to run through it as you hit it. And that left hand on the backhand makes all the difference for stability in that situation.
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About James Ignatowich
Pickleball Portal Contributor
James Ignatowich is a contributor to Pickleball Portal, sharing insights and expertise to help players of all levels improve their game.
