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Learning to Rip Disgusting Backhand Roll Pickleball Shots

February 19, 2025 Skills

Unlock an unbreakable backhand roll by learning how to effortlessly absorb pace and redirect the ball with precision. This post breaks down the simple technique adjustments that will transform your backhand roll into a potent weapon for controlling the court and dictating play.

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TL;DR

Master the backhand roll by taking the ball out of the air early, adopting a wide, balanced stance, and brushing up on the back of the ball with an upward shoulder motion while minimizing wrist action. Anticipate returns by staying relaxed and keeping your head still. Mix up placement by attacking the body on low balls and targeting openings on higher balls.

Key Points on Hitting the One-Handed Backhand Roll

Shot Situation

  • This shot is hit out of the air off a dinking rally or defensive shot from the opponent
  • Look for opportunities when your opponent is scooping/defensively returning a dink
  • Backspin balls are ideal for putting topspin on the backhand roll

Stance and Ready Position

  • Take the ball out of the air if possible, don’t let it bounce first
  • Keep a wide stance, balanced to lunge in either direction
  • Head still, don’t move your head excessively to avoid blurred vision
  • Relaxed ready position, don’t tense up or hold your breath

Swing Mechanics

  • Start with paddle low, around knee level, and brush up the back of the ball
  • Focus on upward shoulder movement initially, use less wrist at first
  • Brushing the back of the ball, not hitting through it, generates topspin
  • Lower contact point requires more upward swing path

Tactical Considerations

  • Aim for opponent’s body or awkward position if ball is below net height
  • Look for openings down the line if ball is at/above net height
  • Expect a return shot and be balanced to reset after the attack
  • Vary locations - cross-court to jam forehand, down the line, etc.
  • Stay relaxed after the shot to react quicker for next ball

Practice Methods

  • Dinking rally with partner feeding dinks for you to roll
  • Tossing ball against wall, allowing return to be low for practice rolls
  • Focus on balance, ready position, and shot anticipation


For this one-handed backhand roll technique, keep a wide, balanced stance and brush upwards off the back of the ball without excessive head/wrist movement. Aim for opponent’s body on low balls, look for openings on higher balls, but expect a return shot and stay relaxed to reset position.