Pickleball Playbook CEO Austin Hardy has shared a step-by-step guide to improving one of the game’s most underrated yet effective shots—the forehand topspin dink. Hardy’s tutorial explains how players, especially beginners and intermediate competitors, can refine their technique to gain a competitive edge.
The Art of the Aggressive Dink
Many players categorize themselves as either slow-game dinkers or aggressive drivers. However, Hardy emphasizes that dinks themselves can be an offensive weapon when executed correctly.
By mastering different types of dinks, players can control the pace, disrupt opponents, and create scoring opportunities.
How to Perfect the Forehand Topspin Dink
Hardy breaks down the forehand topspin dink into three key steps:
Positioning the Ball Correctly
Players should keep the ball in front of their dominant knee for optimal control. If the ball moves wide, they should adjust their position accordingly.
“If the ball goes out wide, I also move out wide.” – (Austin Hardy)
Using a Circular Motion
A smooth, circular paddle motion generates topspin and ensures consistency. Hardy advises players to imagine their paddle moving through a car tire-sized wheel well to perfect their stroke.
“I want to act like I’m putting my paddle through a wheel well the same size as your car tire. Picture that circle as you hit through your shot and it will make a world of a difference.” -(Austin Hardy)
Executing the Nike Swish Finish
Hardy recommends a windshield wiper motion that ends with a “Nike swish” movement toward the intended target.
“If I want to hit down the line, I’m making a Nike swish towards the line, and if I want to go cross court, I’m Nike swishing out toward cross court.” – (Austin Hardy)
Why This Shot Matters
The forehand topspin dink is not just a defensive tool—it is an essential part of high-level play. By adding topspin and strategic placement, players can force their opponents into difficult returns, ultimately dictating the tempo of a rally.
With Hardy’s detailed instructions, pickleball players have the opportunity to refine their game one shot at a time, proving that even the dink can be a powerful offensive strategy.
News in Brief: Forehand Topspin Dink
Pickleball Playbook CEO Austin Hardy explains how players can improve their forehand topspin dink, a crucial shot that combines finesse with aggression.
His step-by-step guide details proper positioning, paddle movement, and finishing techniques to help players elevate their game and gain a competitive edge.
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