Pickleball Tip: Master the Deep Return—No Matter Your Skill Level
The simple shot that sets you up to win more points
One of pickleball’s quirks, the double bounce rule, gives returners a built-in edge. Since the serving team must let your return bounce, you get a golden chance to control the rally right from the start.
Whether you’re brand new to the game or a seasoned 4.5+ competitor, how you place that return can make all the difference. A smart return can instantly put you or your partner on offense. My back was bothering me the other day and I was moving slower, so my returns were higher to give me time to mosey up to the kitchen. And I’ll tell you, with both me and my partner ready and waiting at the kitchen line, our opponents didn’t have a lot of options.
Why Depth Beats Speed
Many players think a hard, low return is the way to go. But speed alone won’t win the point. Because the serving team has to wait for the bounce, your best move is to push them back. A deep return:
Gives you more time to reach the kitchen line.
Forces opponents to hit their third shot from farther back.
Reduces their ability to hit sharp angles.
In short: depth over speed.
How to Hit Deep, Effective Returns
Hitting deep consistently isn’t about swinging harder—it’s about control. Here’s how to make it happen:
Easy does it, a nice loopy return will improve control and reduce errors.
Aim High, think “half a lob”, this gives you more clearance over the net and helps the ball land deep.
Bend and push, use your legs to both get better lift, and also keep your momentum going forward to power you to the kitchen.
Down the Middle, this works whether your opponents are at the kitchen or in this case, the baseline. It limits your opponent’s angles and can cause confusion between them.
Return and come in, use the extra time you’ve earned to get to the kitchen line. My back was bothering me the other day and I was moving slower, so my returns were higher to give me time to mosey up to the kitchen.
By keeping your returns deep—especially toward the middle—you take away your opponents’ best options and set your team up for success. Make them beat you, don’t give away easy points to them.
