How to Hit a Paralyzing Passing Shot in Pickleball

In both singles and doubles pickleball, net control is everything, and the player who can consistently pass an advancing opponent gains a massive advantage

Pickleball's obsession with net-rushing is real, and for good reason. But what happens when your opponent is already at the net waiting for you? That's where the passing shot becomes your best friend.

Ryan Fu, a pro and coach, recently shared a drill that helped him climb the ranks – and it's all about hitting those low, accurate passing shots when someone's crowding the kitchen.

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The Setup: Targets and Small Swings

Fu's drill starts simple. You and a partner position yourselves at the baseline with targets placed strategically on the court. The goal isn't to blast winners from the back; it's to practice precision passing shots that catch your opponent off guard when they're advancing to the net.

The first iteration focuses on hitting down the center line. You're aiming for a low arc over the net that lands right at your opponent's paddle level, ideally at their ankles.

This is where the magic happens: small, controlled swings. Fu emphasizes that you're not taking massive cuts here. Your contact point stays out in front, but your follow-through stays short and close to your body. It's all about control and placement, not power.

Two Passing Shot Scenarios to Master

1. Center-line passes: Rally straight down the middle with small swings, keeping the ball low and tight over the net. This teaches you consistency and control when your opponent is directly in front of you.
2. Crosscourt forehands: Move your target to the corner (about a foot from the sideline and three feet from the kitchen line). This simulates the real-world scenario where you need to pass someone who's approaching at an angle, forcing them to reach or move laterally.

Why This Drill Actually Works

The beauty of Fu's approach is that it removes the guesswork. By placing physical targets on the court, you get immediate feedback. Did you hit the spot? Great. Did you miss? Now you know exactly where your shot went and can adjust. This beats mindlessly rallying because you're training your muscle memory for specific court positions.

The emphasis on small swings is crucial too. Many players think passing shots require the same aggressive swing as a baseline drive. Wrong. A compact stroke gives you better control, faster reaction time, and a lower margin for error. You're not trying to hit a winner; you're trying to make your opponent uncomfortable at the net.

The Bigger Picture

In pickleball, net control is everything, and the player who can consistently pass an advancing opponent gains a massive advantage. This drill builds that skill systematically.

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If you're serious about improving your singles game, this is worth adding to your practice routine. Start with the center-line version to build confidence, then move to the crosscourt angles. Do it regularly, and you'll notice your passing shots becoming sharper and more reliable when it counts.