The Simplest Fix for Pop-Ups and Net Errors? Check Your Paddle Face

Are you struggling with popping the ball up—or driving it straight into the net? Before overhauling your technique or switching paddles, let’s focus on something simple: your paddle face.

This might be the most straightforward fix you can make, and it starts with understanding how your paddle angle affects the ball.

Open vs. Closed Paddle Face

Think of your paddle face like an envelope. When it’s open, the face is angled up. When it’s closed, it’s angled down. Wherever that paddle face is pointing—that’s where the ball is going to go.

Too often, I see players trying to hit aggressively by closing the paddle face and coming over the ball. But what happens? You drive the ball straight into the net. You’re asking the paddle to push down on the ball—and it does.

Why You’re Popping the Ball Up

On the flip side, when you’re hitting from a low position—especially near your feet—you might be keeping your paddle too flat. A flat face and a flick of the wrist? That’s a recipe for a pop-up.

What you want to do instead is let the paddle angle do the lifting for you.

Let the Paddle Work for You

If the ball is low, open your paddle face. Just a little. That simple change will help you lift the ball over the net without over-swinging or flicking. It keeps the shot longer, softer, and more controlled.

Remember, your paddle is your friend. Let it do the work.