Pickleball Pros Are Ditching the Slice: James Ignatowich, a leading pickleball player, highlights the importance of using a two-handed backhand for the return of serve. As serves get faster, attempting a one-handed backhand becomes more challenging, especially at higher levels of play. Ignatowich recommends avoiding the slice return and opting for the two-handed approach to improve control and consistency.
The Challenges of a Slice Return
At lower skill levels, slicing the return of serve might be acceptable. However, as players progress, slicing becomes less effective due to the increasing speed of serves. Ignatowich stresses that slicing can be a liability as it offers less control and does not provide the same stability as a two-handed backhand.
The Benefits of a Two-Handed Backhand
A two-handed backhand offers several advantages. First, it helps generate more topspin, giving players better control and consistency. The left hand plays a crucial role in stabilizing the shot, allowing players to move through the return more effectively. This technique is especially useful during the return of serve, a moment when players are required to run through the shot.
Mastering the Two-Handed Backhand for Improvement
For players aiming to improve, Ignatowich suggests that mastering the two-handed backhand is essential. By using this technique, players can maintain better control over their returns, particularly in high-level play. As serves continue to get faster, this method allows players to handle the pressure and keep the ball in play with more accuracy.
Overall, Ignatowich emphasizes the importance of adapting to faster serves by ditching the slice and focusing on the stability and power provided by the two-handed backhand.
News in Brief: Pickleball Pros Are Ditching the Slice
James Ignatowich advises pickleball players to avoid slicing the return of serve and use a two-handed backhand for greater control and stability. As serves get faster, this technique helps players generate more topspin and handle the return more effectively, especially at higher skill levels.
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