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By Lina Padegimaite
Why are more and more top players switching to a two-handed backhand — and what does it unlock that a traditional one doesn’t?
In this month’s issue, Lina Padegimaite breaks down the shot that is quietly reshaping how points are won at the highest level — and how you can start using it immediately.
Key Takeaways
- The two-handed backhand gives players more stability, topspin, and control — especially on third-shot drives where early pressure decides the point.
- Power comes from the shoulders and legs, not the wrist — a low-to-high swing path is essential for creating consistent topspin.
- Start by training your non-dominant hand alone before adding the full two-handed grip to build proper feel and technique.
“If your third shot floats, your opponent attacks. If it dips with topspin, they react.”
I want to break down one of my most reliable shots — the two-handed backhand, or what a lot of players call the “twoey.”
If you’ve been watching high-level pickleball lately, you’ve probably noticed this shot becoming more common. That’s not by chance.
It’s not just style — it’s a tool to apply pressure early and take control before your opponent settles into the point.
Why You Should Add the Two-Handed Backhand
Let’s start with the “why.” The biggest advantage, especially on your third shot, is pressure.
A topspin two-handed backhand allows you to: drive the ball with more consistency, control depth more effectively, vary pace without losing shape, and make your opponent’s fourth shot much more difficult.
That last point matters. If your third shot floats, your opponent attacks. If it dips and drives with topspin, they react. That’s how you get to the kitchen on your terms.
If you’re following how the global game is shifting week by week, the World Pickleball Report breaks this down every Wednesday.
What Makes the “Twoey” So Effective
The strength of this shot is stability and shape. With two hands on the paddle, you naturally get: more control through contact, a more connected swing, and better topspin without overusing your wrist.
That topspin gives you confidence to swing freely while still bringing the ball down into the court. It also gives you options: roll crosscourt with margin, drive deep to push opponents back, change speed without changing your swing.
That versatility is what separates good players from great ones.
The Key Technique Concepts
1) Low to High Swing Path — You need a low-to-high motion. Get under the ball and brush up to create topspin. This is non-negotiable.
2) Use Your Body, Not Your Wrist — One of the biggest mistakes is getting too wristy. The power comes from your shoulders and upper body working together. Think of your shoulders as the hinge.
3) Get Low With Your Legs — Your legs create the shot. Bend your knees, lower your centre of gravity, and let your positioning give you the right contact point.
4) Paddle Path Matters More Than Position — There’s variation among pros, but the key is consistent: the swing path stays low to high. That’s what creates shape and control.
How to Learn the Two-Handed Backhand
If you come from tennis, this may feel natural. If not, that’s completely normal.
Step 1: Train Your Non-Dominant Hand — Start by hitting with your non-dominant hand only. This builds feel and control.
Step 2: Add the Second Hand — Bring your dominant hand back onto the paddle. Your non-dominant hand sits above it. Now you’re building the full motion.
Step 3: Focus on Motion, Not Power — At first, forget power. Focus on: clean contact, low-to-high swing, staying connected. The pace will come later.
Where to Use It
This shot is most effective in: third-shot drives, passing shots, baseline and midcourt counters. It lets you stay aggressive without losing control.
This Month’s Challenge
If you’re adding this to your game: start with your non-dominant hand, build the motion slowly, use your legs and shoulders, prioritise consistency.
The goal isn’t one perfect shot. It’s a repeatable one you trust under pressure.
The two-handed backhand is one of the fastest ways to modernise your game and take control of points earlier. Stick with it, keep it simple, and let the topspin do the work.
And if you watch closely, you’ll start to see just how often that early pressure decides the point long before it ends.
This article appeared in the April 2026 issue of World Pickleball Magazine.
If you want the full breakdown, including deeper analysis, additional insights, and exclusive content, you can download the full April issue of World Pickleball Magazine here:
Further Reading
- Latest pickleball news from around the world
- Tournament coverage and results
- Rankings and player profiles
- Regional pickleball coverage
Chris Beaumont
Founder and Editor-in-ChiefChris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at…
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