If you don’t have a two-handed backhand in your pickleball arsenal, you’re going to fall behind in 2025. Nearly every pro player—male or female—is incorporating this shot into their game, and for good reason. In this blog post, I’ll explain why the two-handed backhand is a must-have, how to hit it properly, and when to deploy it to dominate your opponents. Let’s get started!

Why the Two-Handed Backhand Matters

The two-handed backhand isn’t just a flashy trick—it’s a game-changer. Here’s why it’s become essential in modern pickleball:

• Extra Power: Whether you’ve got a tennis background or not, adding that second hand to your paddle boosts your pop. A one-handed backhand relies heavily on arm movement, but the two-hander lets you tap into core rotation for more oomph. I might not be Roger Federer (more like the Walmart version!), but even I can feel the difference.
• Stability on High Balls: Ever feel weak and frail when the ball sails up high? A one-handed backhand struggles here, but adding your second hand stabilizes the paddle—especially when the ball’s above your shoulder. Trust me, it feels manly and powerful once you nail it.
• Closer Contact Point: Unlike a one-hander, where you need the ball out in front, the two-handed backhand brings the contact point closer to your body. This buys you precious time, especially during dinking battles at the net.
• Deception: Your non-dominant hand (usually the left) becomes a secret weapon. Subtle last-minute adjustments to your paddle angle can throw off opponents, making it hard for them to predict whether you’re dinking or speeding up. It’s a beautiful thing to watch unfold.

How to Hit a Two-Handed Backhand

Ready to add this shot to your toolkit? Here’s the breakdown:

Grip Setup:

• Start with a Continental grip on your dominant hand (think of it like shaking hands with the paddle). This is the most common choice among pros.
• Place your non-dominant hand above it, as close as possible to your other fingers. Some players wrap all their fingers around the grip, while others rest a couple on the paddle face for extra control.
• Optional tweak: Shift to an Eastern backhand grip to close the paddle face and crank up the topspin. (I’ve got a whole video on pro grips if you want to dive deeper—check it out!)

Execution:

• From the Baseline: Close your stance and coil your core for rotational power. You’re not swinging big with your arms—focus on transferring weight from back to front. Your contact point should be near your front leg, and if done right, your back leg will naturally lift as you follow through.
• At the Kitchen: Foot movement might be limited, but the principles stay the same: keep the contact point out front, rotate through your core, and shift your weight forward—even if your feet don’t budge.

Drill to Master It:

• Hold the paddle with your dominant hand in the two-handed position, then remove it, leaving the paddle in your non-dominant hand.
• Practice dinking solo, keeping your dominant hand moving in sync (as if it were still on the paddle). Start straight ahead, then try crosscourt shots.
• Bonus tip: Watch pros like Ben and Colin Johns—they nearly beat 5.0 players left-handed in a “Pros vs. 5.0s” match I filmed. Inspiration awaits in that video!

When to Use a Two-Handed Backhand

Timing is everything. Here’s when this shot shines:

• Baseline Drives and Topspin Drops: The extra power and spin make it perfect for punishing shots from the backcourt. (Love spin? Check the link below for the spinnniest paddle on the market—use code ZNPSUBSCRIBER for 10% off and free shipping!)
• Transition Zone Counters: In the tricky mid-court area, use the two-hander to turn weak attacks into your advantage.
• Hands Battles: When the ball’s far or high, the stability keeps you in control during rapid exchanges.
• Aggressive Dinks and Speed-Ups: Keep your dink and speed-up motions identical—your opponents won’t know what’s coming until it’s too late.

The Pros and Cons

The two-handed backhand is a powerhouse, but it’s not the only tool you’ll need. The best players in 2025 and beyond will blend two-handed and one-handed backhands for maximum versatility. The two-hander excels in power, stability, and deception, but it can limit reach compared to a one-hander in certain situations. Master both, and you’ll be unstoppable.

Take Your Game Further

If your forehand needs work, check out my forehand power video. At 140 lbs soaking wet, I’ve cracked the code—you can too.

The two-handed backhand is your ticket to staying ahead in 2025. Start practicing, mix it into your game, and watch your opponents scramble. See you on the court!

Watch on YouTube: COMPLETE Two Hand Backhand Tutorial