Mastering the Pickleball Lob: Tips from Pro Player Domenika Turkovic
Mastering the Lob: Your Secret Weapon on the Court
By Domenika Turkovic – Professional Player
In today’s pickleball game—where lightning-fast hands and net dominance often steal the spotlight—there’s one shot that’s constantly overlooked but endlessly powerful: the lob.
Whether you’re defending under pressure or launching a surprise attack, a well-timed lob can shift momentum and put your opponents on the run.
Many players ignore the lob because they think it’s too risky, or they only use it as a last resort. But trust me—the lob deserves a spot in your strategy toolkit.
What exactly is a lob? It’s a high, deep shot that floats just over your opponent’s reach and drops near the baseline. It can be used to reset a rally, take control, or even win the point outright.
And the best part?
From the kitchen or the backcourt, a good lob isn’t just defensive—it’s smart.
Two Types of Lobs
The Defensive Lob
Perfect when you’re stuck at the baseline and need time to reset. Float the ball high and deep to give yourself a moment to recover and move back into position.
The Offensive Lob
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My personal favorite—especially when opponents get too aggressive at the net. When players are hugging the kitchen line, the lob becomes a perfect surprise weapon that forces them to scramble backward.
When both opponents are tight at the kitchen line, the lob can instantly create space and disrupt their positioning.
When to Use It
Use the lob when opponents aren’t comfortable moving backward or don’t like overheads. Lobbing crosscourt gives you more distance to put the shot in play and reduces risk.
Here’s an important tip:
Don’t telegraph your lobs.
Keep the same setup you use for dinks so your opponents can’t read your intention.
Technique Matters
Make sure you stay low and use your shoulder when lobbing, not just your wrist.
Pick your moment wisely—don’t spam the lob. Use it strategically to make it count.
Mistakes I see all the time:
Lobbing too low
Getting predictable
Overusing the shot
A poorly executed lob can be attacked quickly, so precision is key.
The Smart Player’s Weapon
Finally, remember: a lob isn’t just a shot—it’s a statement.
It says:
“I see the court. I know where you are. And I’m two steps ahead.”
Use the lob to mix up the pace, break your opponent’s rhythm, and keep them guessing.
Don’t be afraid to lob.
Practice it. Own it. And use it with confidence.
Sometimes the smartest play on the court isn’t the fastest—it’s the most unexpected.
See you on the court.
— Domenika Turkovic
Mastering the Lob: Your Secret Weapon on the Court
By Domenika Turkovic – Professional Player
In today’s pickleball game—where lightning-fast hands and net dominance often steal the spotlight—there’s one shot that’s constantly overlooked but endlessly powerful: the lob.
Whether you’re defending under pressure or launching a surprise attack, a well-timed lob can shift momentum and put your opponents on the run.
Many players ignore the lob because they think it’s too risky, or they only use it as a last resort. But trust me—the lob deserves a spot in your strategy toolkit.
What exactly is a lob? It’s a high, deep shot that floats just over your opponent’s reach and drops near the baseline. It can be used to reset a rally, take control, or even win the point outright.
And the best part?
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From the kitchen or the backcourt, a good lob isn’t just defensive—it’s smart.
Two Types of Lobs
The Defensive Lob
Perfect when you’re stuck at the baseline and need time to reset. Float the ball high and deep to give yourself a moment to recover and move back into position.
The Offensive Lob
LOVE PICKLEBALL?
Get Dink Authority Magazine updates, new editions, pro stories and event alerts.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.
My personal favorite—especially when opponents get too aggressive at the net. When players are hugging the kitchen line, the lob becomes a perfect surprise weapon that forces them to scramble backward.
When both opponents are tight at the kitchen line, the lob can instantly create space and disrupt their positioning.
When to Use It
Use the lob when opponents aren’t comfortable moving backward or don’t like overheads. Lobbing crosscourt gives you more distance to put the shot in play and reduces risk.
Here’s an important tip:
Don’t telegraph your lobs.
Keep the same setup you use for dinks so your opponents can’t read your intention.
Technique Matters
Make sure you stay low and use your shoulder when lobbing, not just your wrist.
Pick your moment wisely—don’t spam the lob. Use it strategically to make it count.
Mistakes I see all the time:
Lobbing too low
Getting predictable
Overusing the shot
A poorly executed lob can be attacked quickly, so precision is key.
The Smart Player’s Weapon
Finally, remember: a lob isn’t just a shot—it’s a statement.
It says:
“I see the court. I know where you are. And I’m two steps ahead.”
Use the lob to mix up the pace, break your opponent’s rhythm, and keep them guessing.
Don’t be afraid to lob.
Practice it. Own it. And use it with confidence.
Sometimes the smartest play on the court isn’t the fastest—it’s the most unexpected.
See you on the court.
— Domenika Turkovic
