Rise of the Drive

The Rise of the Third Shot Drive

According to PPA Tour data, third shot drives jumped from 38% in 2023 to 51% in 2024—a clear indication that the pros are leaning into a more aggressive approach game.

Why It Works

A well-placed drive puts immediate pressure on the returning team—especially when it’s targeted at uncomfortable contact points like the opponent’s outside hip, paddle-side shoulder, or directly at the body. These spots often produce awkward volleys or pop-ups, creating ideal shake-and-bake opportunities for your partner to attack the next shot.

When to Use It

Use the drive when:

• The return is short or floats high.

• You’re balanced with a clean, waist-high setup or better.

• One of your opponents is moving forward—driving at a moving target increases your chances of getting a weak return.

• There’s a gap down the middle or hesitation between partners.

Avoid the drive when the ball is low, especially below the knees—it’s not going to have a high success rate, and you will be off-balance for the counter-attack. Don’t drive when you’re off-balance or if your opponents are already set at the net, and you know they have quick hands. In these cases, your drive can come back even faster.

Watch Out for the Counter-attack

If your opponents are already set at the net, a hard drive can actually work against you. Skilled players with fast hands will absorb the pace and counter with speed. If you're not ready—or if your partner isn’t expecting it—this surprise counter-attack can quickly turn the point in your opponent’s favour.

That’s why communication is critical. Let your partner know when you're driving so they can be alert and ready to pounce or cover the next shot. Never assume they’re prepared for a fast exchange unless you’ve talked about it.

Don’t Overuse It

The drive is a fantastic tool—but it should be used with intention. If you’re playing the same players regularly, and you drive every third shot, they’ll catch on. Over time, they’ll start positioning themselves for the counter and take the advantage away from you.

Back-to-back drives? Rarely a good idea. Once the element of surprise is gone, it becomes predictable and easy to neutralize.

Mix in third shot drops, lobs, and misdirection. Keep your opponents guessing. Keep control of the point.

Mirror the Pros

Sometimes it’s not about perfect technique—it’s about smart patterns. The best players in the world constantly evolve. They disguise their intentions, choose the right shot based on the moment, and stay unpredictable.

So don’t just repeat what worked in the past. Study, adjust, and play to perfect your game.

Play well, and enjoy the game!