What is the Best Service Return Strategy in Pickleball?

Setting the Tone from the First Touch

In pickleball, every rally begins with a serve and a return. While much has been written about serving techniques, the service return is often underestimated in its strategic importance. Yet for the receiving team, this is not just a reactionary shot—it’s a prime opportunity to take control of the point from the start.

Unlike the serve, which is subject to stricter rules and must be hit underhand, the return allows for greater variation in depth, angle, spin, and speed. And because the serving team must let the return bounce before hitting their next shot, the returner has a tactical window to influence how the point unfolds.

A well-executed return of serve can disrupt an opponent’s rhythm, force a weak third shot, and position the returning team at the net—where most points are won. So what makes a service return effective? And how can players at all levels refine this skill to gain an edge?

The Primary Objective: Buy Time and Gain the Net

The most fundamental goal of a service return is to keep the ball deep in the court, ideally pushing the serving team behind the baseline. This gives the returning team time to advance to the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ)—commonly called “the kitchen”—and take control of the net.

Because of pickleball’s double-bounce rule (where the serve and return must each bounce once before being volleyed), the returning team already holds a positional advantage. Capitalizing on this advantage means:

Forcing the third shot to be hit from a deeper position.

Limiting the angles and options available to the serving team.

Preventing a quick charge to the kitchen line from the server or their partner.

In doubles especially, controlling the net early often leads to controlling the point. The return sets that process in motion.

Depth: The Foundation of a Strong Return

Consistent depth is the most important element of a successful return. A return that lands close to the baseline:

Gives the returning team time to move forward.

Increases the likelihood of a mistake on the third shot.

Reduces the ability of the server to follow their shot to the net.

Returns that fall short, particularly near the service line, invite attack. They allow the serving team to step in and execute a third-shot drive or aggressive drop with less difficulty.

Practice Tip: Focus on hitting your returns three to six feet inside the baseline. Use a controlled, smooth swing rather than trying to overpower the ball.

Placement: More Than Just Depth

While depth is the priority, placement adds a tactical layer to service returns. Where you return the ball can influence the movement and strategy of your opponents.

Returning to the backhand side is generally more effective, as most players (especially recreational-level) are less consistent with their backhand drives or drops.

Returning down the middle creates indecision. It can disrupt communication between doubles partners and lead to hesitated or misplayed third shots.

Returning with a wide angle forces the server to move laterally, increasing the difficulty of the third shot and making it harder to close the net afterward.

That said, these placements should not sacrifice depth. A short, angled return is less effective than a deep, straight one.

Spin and Pace: Tools to Disrupt Rhythm

Most returns are hit with a flat or slightly top-spun stroke. But players with control and paddle awareness can introduce spin to increase effectiveness.

Topspin returns bounce higher and deeper, pushing the server back and adding an extra layer of difficulty on contact.

Slice or underspin returns stay lower and skid, making it harder for opponents to lift the ball into a quality third shot drop.

Lofted or high-arching returns provide maximum time for the returner to reach the net, especially useful for older or less mobile players.

Pace should be dictated by control. Many players try to hit the return hard to gain advantage, but this often leads to errors or shorter balls. A medium-paced, deep return is more valuable than a rushed shot that clips the net or lands short.

Movement and Positioning After the Return

One of the most overlooked aspects of the return is what the player does next. After hitting a solid return, the player should immediately advance to the NVZ, ideally meeting their partner at the line.

Many beginners hit the return and remain near the baseline or move only halfway forward. This gives up the opportunity to gain net control and allows the serving team to dictate play.

The return and the move to the kitchen should be a single action. Hit, then move—deliberately and with readiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing the return: Trying to generate too much power too quickly leads to mis-hits and unforced errors.

Floating returns without depth: High, short balls are easily attacked by the server’s partner.

Failing to move forward: Staying back wastes the positional advantage granted by the rules.

Ignoring spin effects: Some players return serves without adjusting for spin, leading to mis-timed contact.

Trying to win the point immediately: The return is not the time to hit a winner—it’s the time to set up the point.

Variations for Advanced Players

As players gain experience, they can start to tailor returns based on opponent tendencies:

Against aggressive third-shot drivers, a deep return with heavy slice can force low contact and neutralize pace.

Against consistent drop-shotters, a return to the body or deep middle can limit their setup time.

In mixed doubles, returning to the weaker player (often the less aggressive partner) can shift control early.

These adjustments require awareness and adaptability, traits developed over time through play and observation.

Drilling for Better Returns

Improving return consistency is best done through repetition. Drills might include:

Partner serves, followed by return placement to backhand or middle.

Using cones to create depth zones and target consistent landing areas.

Practicing returns while moving forward, simulating live game conditions.

Recording return sessions can also reveal patterns and weaknesses in placement, footwork, and follow-through.

Conclusion: Winning Starts with the Return

While serving initiates the point, it’s the return that often shapes how the rally unfolds. A good return in pickleball is not flashy—it’s dependable, purposeful, and followed by immediate net advancement.

Mastering the return of serve doesn’t require exceptional athleticism, but it does demand intention. Players who treat this shot as a strategic weapon, rather than a routine formality, discover that control often begins before the third shot is even played.

And in a game where inches matter and pressure builds quickly, that early control can make all the difference.