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Did slice shots die?

Did slice shots die?

Paul from Pickleball Daily
November 28, 2025

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Tip of the day

This Pickleball Shot Died in 2025 - What’s Next?

This video explains why the aggressive slice shot, including the return, third shot drop, and dink, is becoming obsolete at the professional level of pickleball.

The popularization of raw carbon fiber paddle faces allows players to generate way more topspin, which can be used to counter and attack aggressive slice shots.

Slice shots naturally float more and travel slower through the air than topspin or flat shots, giving opponents more time to reach the net or prepare an attack.

The aggressive backspin third shot drop is especially ineffective because it floats, allowing the net player to easily continue the spin and hit an aggressive fourth shot out of the air.

For dinks, an open paddle face preparation for a slice signals to the opponent that they can play more aggressively because the slice cannot hurt them.

Instead of slicing, you should prioritize hitting an aggressive topspin shot whenever you have time and position to set up.

If you are rushed or can’t hit a strong topspin shot, you should opt for a flat “bump” shot to remove spin and prevent your opponent from continuing the energy.

By preparing with your paddle head below the level of the ball, you disguise whether you are hitting a topspin dink or a speed up, which prevents your opponent from anticipating your shot.

Key Points:

Aggressive slices are ineffective against modern topspin attacks and paddle technology.
Avoid slicing returns, third shot drops, and dinks against opponents who can handle them.
When you have time, prioritize hitting topspin shots over slices to gain a tactical advantage.
If you cannot hit topspin, hit a flat "bump" shot to prevent your opponent from continuing the spin.
To add deception, prepare with your paddle below the level of the ball, as this hides your intent for a dink or speed up.

Watch the full tutorial here.