PHOTO BY TYLER DOLLARD
IN SUMMARY
Before starting a tournament, have the lob retrieval discussion with your partner. All speeds being equal, balls hit to the odd court should be run down by the odd-court player with a forehand. At the same time, you have a decision to make on lobs hit toward the backhand of the even-court player. Remember, when your partner goes back, you should too. Finally, if you have time, hit a crosscourt drop shot— always making sure to clear the net. •
Wayne Dollard is a US Open 50 + and 5.0 US Open champion, and 5x national and US Open gold medalist. He is also the founder of LevelUp Pickleball Camps and publisher of Pickleball Magazine.
SPRING 2026 | MAGAZINE 25