If you’ve been watching high-level pickleball over the last year, you’ve likely noticed a major shift in the game: the two-handed backhand dink is becoming a dominant weapon. Adding this shot to your arsenal allows you to be more aggressive from the kitchen and puts constant pressure on your opponents.
To master this advanced technique, you need to focus on four critical components: footwork, timing, paddle angle, and swing speed.
1. Master your footwork & create space
Many players make the mistake of staying "glued" to the kitchen line, moving only laterally. To hit a successful two-handed dink, you must pivot back to give yourself space to swing.
- The Outside Leg Rule: Aim to place your outside leg directly behind the path of the ball.
- Early Preparation: Focus on positioning yourself early so you aren't jammed when the ball arrives.
- Give Yourself Room: Stepping back slightly off the line helps your timing and allows for a full, fluid motion.
2. Time the "apex"
Timing is everything when it comes to topspin. To generate the right dip, you want to catch the ball at its apex (the highest point of the bounce) or as it begins to descend.
- Catch the Drop: Let the ball fall into your paddle rather than rushing it.
- When to Abandon: If the ball is moving too fast or "jams" you at your feet, you may need to ditch the two-handed topspin and revert to a defensive one-handed slice or "scoop" dink.
- Aggression vs. Reset: The better you prep and catch the apex, the more aggressive you can be. If you miss the apex, focus on a simple reset.
3. Contact point and paddle angle
A common question is whether to keep the paddle tip up or down. While you can use either style, the key is where you make contact with the ball.
- Target the Southern Hemisphere: You must hit the bottom half of the ball to create topspin and clear the net.
- Get Low: Regardless of your paddle tip position, you must drop your legs and eye level low to get underneath the ball.
- Control the Wrist: Some players prefer keeping the tip up to limit wrist flexion and maintain better control.
4. Swing speed and dwell time
The mechanics of a two-handed topspin dink are the opposite of a traditional one-handed slice.
- Short and Quick: Unlike the slow, long "dwell time" of a slice, the two-handed topspin dink requires a quicker swing speed and less time on the paddle.
- The Lead Hand: Remember that your non-dominant hand (the left hand for righties) should be doing the majority of the work.
- Balance is Key: You can only use a short, quick swing if you are perfectly on balance; otherwise, you risk sailing the ball long.
By combining proper footwork, precise timing at the apex, a low contact point, and a quick swing, you’ll be able to master the two-handed backhand dink and take your kitchen game to the next level.