Mastering the Dipping Drive in Pickleball: Tips from Pro Mari Humberg

Professional pickleball player Mari Humberg shares expert advice on mastering the dipping drive, an essential offensive shot. She discusses the importance of topspin and common mistakes made by amateur players. Humberg emphasizes the tactical significance of this technique for aggressive gameplay, particularly for those using a 'drive and crash' strategy. As pickleball continues to gain popularity, her insights provide valuable guidance for players looking to refine their skills and enhance their performance on the court.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 10:44 IST

Understanding the Dipping Drive Technique

Professional pickleball athlete Mari Humberg recently shared valuable tips on executing the dipping drive, a powerful offensive shot. In a discussion on her Instagram, she explained the nuances that differentiate standard drives from more advanced techniques. While many players can perform a basic drive, Humberg emphasized that mastering the dipping drive requires specific adjustments. She stated, “Most players understand how to hit a drive, but they aspire to perfect their dipping drives.”

According to Humberg, the key to a successful dipping drive lies in the use of topspin, which causes the ball to drop sharply at the end of its flight, making it challenging for opponents to return. She elaborated, "To achieve a dipping drive, incorporating topspin is essential so that the ball descends quickly at the shot's conclusion."

Humberg also pointed out a frequent error made by amateur players, who often depend too much on flat shots. She observed, “When I watch amateur matches, I notice an abundance of flat drives. The ball fails to dip at the end due to insufficient topspin.” This issue typically arises from inadequate follow-through and rotation. Instead of merely striking through the ball, she recommended incorporating a “windshield wiper” motion at the shot's end to generate spin. “Players are hitting the ball flat without adding any rotation at the finish, which is crucial,” she remarked.

Highlighting the strategic significance of the dipping drive, Humberg described it as essential for aggressive gameplay, especially for those employing a “drive and crash” tactic with their partners. “Dipping drives are vital for executing a drive and crash. If that’s your goal with your partner, it’s time to start practicing this technique,” she advised. As pickleball's popularity surges, insights from professionals like Humberg are invaluable for players seeking to enhance their skills and gain a competitive advantage on the court.

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