- Pickleball Daily
- Posts
- Hitting better returns
Hitting better returns
Paul from Pickleball Daily
February 25, 2026
In partnership with
Feel Better, Without Overthinking It
Most of us don’t need a complicated routine. We just want to feel good, stay energized, and not think too hard about it.
AG1 Next Gen is a clinically studied daily health drink that supports gut health, helps fill common nutrient gaps, and supports steady energy. One scoop in cold water replaces a multivitamin, probiotics, and more, so your routine stays simple.
Start your mornings with AG1 and get 3 FREE AG1 Travel Packs, 3 FREE AGZ Travel Packs, and FREE Vitamin D3+K2 in your Welcome Kit with your first subscription.
Tip of the day
Kyle Koszuta explains why your return placement is crucial for setting up a successful fourth shot and dominating the rally.
A high-probability target for your return is the inside foot of the player on the right side of the court.
Targeting this specific spot often forces a difficult backhand and can pull the opponent out of position, opening up the center of the court.
When your partner is at the kitchen, they should shift toward the center line to protect you from a straight-line drive.
In a lefty-righty matchup, hitting the return down the center of the court forces the opponents to communicate and decide who takes the shot.
If you are returning while stacking, hitting the ball toward the opponent in front of you can give you more time to get set.
For players with less mobility, a higher and loftier return provides the extra time needed to reach the non-volley zone line safely.
Depth is often more important than power, as a deep return keeps the server back and makes their third shot much more difficult.
Adapting your return strategy based on your opponents' performance, such as targeting a player who just missed a shot, can create mental pressure.
Consistency and pattern recognition are key to moving beyond simply hitting the ball back and actually planning your way through a point.
Key Points:
Think of the return as a setup for your fourth shot rather than an isolated stroke.
Aim for the right-side opponent's backhand foot to create openings for your next ball.
Shift your partner toward the center to provide better protection against aggressive third-shot drives.
Use the center line as a target against lefty-righty pairs to disrupt their communication.
Prioritize depth and placement over speed to maintain control of the transition to the net.
Your Simplest Win of the Day
Feeling better doesn’t have to be complicated. AG1 Next Gen is a clinically studied daily health drink that supports gut health, helps fill common nutrient gaps, and supports steady energy, all in one simple scoop. Start your mornings with AG1 and get 3 FREE Travel Packs plus Vitamin D3+K2 in your Welcome Kit.
Deal of the day
Meme of the day
Unpredictable! 🤣
That’s it for today! As always, thank you for reading. 🙏
If you’d like to support Pickleball Daily and want to read ad-free, please consider a premium membership.
Happy pickling,
Paul