Key Highlights
- Instead of allowing the ball to peak, he took the lob serve on the rise, striking it while moving forward inside the court. From Risky Family Decisions to Global Phenom: The Making of Pickleball Superstar Anna Leigh WatersThis early contact helped him maintain his court position and prevented his opponent from resetting.
- By stepping in, Sock immediately applied pressure and dictated the pace of the rally rather than reacting to it. Swinging OutwardWhile many players instinctively attempted to hit down hard on a high ball, Sock chose a different path.
- He swung outward with a slightly closed paddle face, allowing the ball’s trajectory to dip naturally. This technique reduced errors and improved consistency.
- Rather than forcing the shot, the paddle angle controlled the finish, making the return easier to repeat under pressure. Despite the height of the lob serve, Sock kept his backswing short and controlled.
- The power came from forward acceleration rather than a large wind-up. A compact backswing helped with timing, especially when taking the ball early.