The 4 Essential Pickleball Return Targets to Play Like a Pro

By mastering these targets, you'll improve your return consistency, put pressure on your opponents, and ultimately win more points.

Learning how to return serves effectively is one of the most critical skills in pickleball.

In this video, Kyle Koszuta from @thatpickleballguy breaks down the four essential return targets that will transform your game and help you return like a pro.

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1. Target the Sideline

The first return target is the sideline. When you're returning serve, aiming for the sideline puts pressure on your opponent immediately. You force your opponent to move laterally and make a decision quickly. This is especially effective against aggressive servers who are expecting a more central return.

The sideline return also gives you more court to work with and makes it harder for your opponent to attack the ball aggressively.

2. Target the Baseline

The second return target is the baseline. Returning deep to the baseline is a fundamental strategy that keeps your opponent back and prevents them from advancing to the net quickly.

When you return to the baseline, you're essentially resetting the point and giving yourself time to get to the net. This target is particularly useful against servers who like to rush the net after serving. A deep baseline return forces them to hit from further back, reducing their attacking options.

3. Target the Middle

The third return target is the middle of the court. Targeting the middle is a smart strategy because it reduces angles for your opponent and forces them to make a decision about which side to cover.

When you return to the middle, you're essentially splitting the court and making it harder for your opponent to hit a winner. This target is especially effective in doubles play, where it can create confusion between partners about who should take the ball.

4. Target the Feet

The fourth return target is the feet of your opponent. This is an advanced return strategy that involves hitting the ball low and forcing your opponent to bend down and make contact below the net. By targeting the feet, you're limiting your opponent's ability to hit an aggressive shot and forcing them into a defensive position.

This return target is particularly effective against players like Tyson McGuffin, Jack Sock, Anna Leigh Waters, and Anna Bright, who are known for their aggressive net play. When you can keep the ball low at their feet, you neutralize their attacking advantage.

Why These Four Targets Matter

Understanding these four return targets gives you a strategic framework for every serve you face. Rather than just trying to get the ball back in play, you're now making intentional decisions about where to place your return. This level of strategic thinking separates recreational players from competitive ones.

But through the right practice, the key is to develop the muscle memory and court awareness to execute these returns under pressure during actual matches.