Mastering the Third Shot Drop in Pickleball: Timing Tips from Pro Player

Understanding the Third Shot Drop

Professional pickleball athlete Preston Engel has addressed a prevalent misunderstanding among players regarding the third shot drop. He emphasized that the real issue often stems from timing rather than technique. In a recent discussion on his Instagram, Engel stated, "The third shot drop isn't the problem; your timing is," highlighting that players often misjudge the right moment to strike the ball.

Engel elaborated that the speed of the return is vital for executing a successful drop shot. He noted, "It all comes down to the speed of the return and your contact point." For slower returns, he recommended maintaining patience and control. "On a slower return, don’t rush. Approach the ball and allow it to drop before making contact," he advised, which can lead to a lower and more comfortable hitting point.

He cautioned against trying to execute aggressive shots from high bounces, explaining, "Attempting to hit a drop from a higher bounce or taking it on the rise from a slower return can be challenging, and it’s easy to mishit it by overdoing it." Conversely, he suggested a different strategy for faster returns: "If the return is quick, don’t hesitate. Move in towards the ball to hit it before it rises too high."

In summary, Engel stated, "For a slower return, let it drop. For a faster return, take it early. It’s about different timing but maintaining the same goal: keeping that contact point low." These insights provide practical adjustments that can enhance players' consistency and control, particularly for one of the most critical shots in pickleball.