The Rise of the Double-Handed Backhand in Pickleball

In recent years, the pickleball world has seen a noticeable uptick in using the double-handed backhand (DHB), a shot changing how amateur and professional players approach rallies, passing shots, and defense. What began as a rare variation is now becoming a strategic tool seen more frequently on the pro circuit and local courts alike. But where did this shot come from, who first used it, and why is it gaining momentum?

A Brief History: From Tennis to Pickleball

The double-handed backhand (DHB) is a classic tennis favorite. In the 1970s, players such as Björn Borg and later the legends Andre Agassi, Novak Djokovic, and Serena Williams popularized it. The DHB provides greater stability, control, and power, especially on high balls or fast exchanges.

In pickleball, though, the shot was not immediately popular. The smaller court, lower net, and faster reflexes required at the kitchen line made the classic one-handed backhand more valuable, at least during the sport’s early days. As pickleball expanded and tennis players came into the sport, many of them carried their two-handed mechanics along with them.

One of the earliest top-level players to utilize the DHB regularly was Simone Jardim, a former Division I tennis coach turned pickleball player who became one of the leading female players. Her strong, consistent two-handed backhand did much to validate the shot in pickleball, especially in drive exchanges and cross-court attacks.

What Is the Double-Handed Backhand Used For in Pickleball?

Nowadays, the two-handed backhand is used in most situations, such as:

Drive Shots

Two hands provide more power and control over direction on low shots or fast exchanges, particularly when attacking from the mid-court.

Passing Shots

When pulled wide on the backhand side, a two-handed grip can generate more force and angle to get the ball past an opponent at the net.

Topspin Backhands

Players can produce heavy topspin with both hands, causing the ball to fall sharply into the court.

Defensive Shots

When hitting quick-fire volleys or resets, a second hand on the paddle can stabilize the stroke and slow the pace.

Lob Returns

The DHB enables players to push using both arms and generate a deeper, controlled return for deep shots or lobs.

Men vs. Women: How the DHB Differs Across the Genders

While both male and female players use the DHB for similar purposes, there are subtle differences in technique and context of use:

Male Players:

Generally, the DHB creates power on drives or cross-court passing shots. Aggression and speed are emphasized; two hands allow for greater leverage and torque. Aggressive hip rotation into the shot is standard among most male professionals, coupling upper body strength with leg drive.

One of the more high-profile recent converts to the DHB is Ben Johns, possibly one of the all-time great male pickleball players. Known for his unmatched touch, strategic precision, and one-handed backhand roll, Johns has recently added a double-handed backhand to his repertoire. This addition reflects the evolving nature of pro-level play, particularly how to handle faster shots and develop additional power from the baseline.

With the DHB, Johns adds yet another degree of uncertainty and threat of attack to his already high-level skillset, making him all the more dynamic and dangerous on the court.

Female Players:

They generally prefer control, consistency, and spin. A two-handed backhand tends to be utilized in transition areas or when counteracting hard-hitting shots. Players can depend more on core rotation and paddle face control instead of raw arm strength, so the second hand helps with stability.

Which Pro Players Are Using the Double-Handed Backhand?

Increasing numbers of pro players are using the DHB, some for power, some for accuracy. Here are some names you might recognize:

Women’s Side:

Anna Leigh Waters – Perhaps the face of contemporary pickleball, she frequently employs a DHB to attack passing shots and returns.

Simone Jardim – A pioneer of the shot in women’s pickleball, particularly from her tennis-style stance.

Vivienne David – Renowned for solid, well-directed DHBs, particularly in transition play.

Men’s Side:

JW Johnson – Employs the DHB as a weapon while driving from the baseline or during quick-hitting rallies.

Jack Sock – A more recent tennis crossover celebrity, Sock employs a powerful DHB like he did in tennis.

Thomas Wilson – His short, slick DHB is used often in passing moves or as a powerful counter.

So why is this shot becoming so popular, especially right now?

Tennis Influence

As more tennis players switch to pickleball, they carry over their muscle memory and two-handed backhand confidence.

Speed of the Game

Pickleball today, particularly at the professional level, is quicker than ever. This results in two-handed paddle management and faster resets.

Power Generation

For players with weaker upper bodies, two hands give you greater torque and shot velocity.

Consistency and Stability

Two hands hold the paddle steady in quick hand wars or when extended on the backhand side.

Confidence for Beginners

Recreational players also feel more in control when they have two hands on the paddle, especially when learning new strokes.

The Future of the Double-Handed Backhand in Pickleball

The DHB is no longer novel, it’s a staple in most top players’ collections and is making its way to the club level. As the game continues to evolve, anticipate:

More youth players, beginning with DHB right from the start, especially juniors from tennis.
Coaches teach the shot alongside one-handed backhands in a long-term development program.
New paddles with slightly longer handles or improved balance for a two-handed grip.
Increased shot range, two-handed topspin rolls, flicks, and passing shots will be more developed.
We’ll also see hybrid formations: players employing a DHB on some shots and going one-handed on others, based on position and strategy.

Benefits of Using the Double-Handed Backhand

Whether you’re a pro player or a weekend warrior, the DHB offers several distinct advantages:

For Professionals:

More offensive options in high-level doubles.
Greater shot deception, especially when disguising a drive vs. a drop.
Better paddle control under pressure.
Consistency on high-bouncing returns and when pinned on the baseline.

For Recreational Players:

Easier learning curve for those with tennis backgrounds.
Enhanced shot stability, especially for those with weaker wrists or elbows.
Improved defensive capabilities during fast-paced exchanges.
Boost in confidence when driving from awkward positions.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Evolution

Pickleball is a rapidly evolving sport, and the rise of the double-handed backhand is a testament to its dynamic nature. What was once unconventional is now becoming standard practice, driven by performance benefits, crossover athletes, and innovative coaching.

Whether playing competitively or recreationally, trying out the DHB could give you a new edge on the court. It’s not about abandoning the one-hander but expanding your toolkit and finding what works best for your game.

If you haven’t experimented with the double-handed backhand yet, now might be the perfect time to put both hands on the paddle and take a swing at the future of pickleball.

Picture Source: JOOLA Pickleball