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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pb-drop-serve-what

What is a drop serve in pickleball?

You drop the ball, let it bounce, then hit it.

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  1. You toss it high and hit it falling
  2. You drop the ball and hit it after it bounces ✔
  3. You bounce the ball off the net

Why: A drop serve is the second legal way to serve. You simply drop the ball, let it bounce on the playing surface, then hit it.

Huh, didn't know that: Many beginners like the drop serve because the bounce gives them extra time to swing.

The dad joke
The drop serve is my favorite. I am great at dropping things.
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References

Answer: You drop the ball and hit it after it bounces. A drop serve is the second legal way to serve. You simply drop the ball, let it bounce on the playing surface, then hit it.

  1. 2026 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook usapickleball.org/docs/rules/USAP-Official-Rulebook.pdf
    A serve made by dropping the ball and hitting the ball with the paddle after the ball bounces on the playing surface.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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