The ATP (Around the Post) Shot: Singles Edition
What Is the ATP Shot?
The ATP — Around the Post — shot is one of the most visually spectacular and strategically effective shots in pickleball. It involves hitting the ball around the net post, outside the sideline, such that it lands in the opponent’s court without crossing over the net. In singles, the ATP can be a game-changing weapon when executed correctly, especially because there is no partner on the other side to cover the extreme angle.
When to Use the ATP in Singles
The ATP is not a shot you force — it is a shot the opponent gives you. In singles, ideal ATP opportunities arise when:
- Your opponent is pulled wide to the sideline: If they hit a sharp cross-court shot that takes them off the court, the opposite side is wide open.
- You are at the net: You need to be close to the kitchen line to reach balls that are heading wide. Trying an ATP from the baseline is nearly impossible.
- The ball is below net height: If the ball is rising or above net height, you have easier options (like a volley winner). The ATP is the right choice when the ball is dropping and heading wide.
Step-by-Step Execution
- Read the Angle: As soon as your opponent hits a wide cross-court shot, read the trajectory. If it’s heading outside the sideline and dropping, you have an ATP opportunity.
- Open the Paddle Face: Angle your paddle face toward the ball’s incoming path. The more extreme the angle, the more open your paddle face needs to be.
- Shorten Your Swing: The ATP is a compact shot. A long backswing reduces accuracy and timing. Keep the swing short — think of it as a deflection or a punch rather than a full swing.
- Aim for the Sideline: Your target is the area just inside the sideline, deep in the court. In singles, you have the advantage of an entire open court — aim deep to force your opponent into a difficult recovery run.
Common ATP Mistakes
| Mistake | Why It Happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Attempting from too deep | Overestimating reach and angle | Only attempt ATP when you’re within 3 feet of the net |
| Using too much power | Treating it like a winner instead of a placement shot | Focus on touch and placement, not power |
| Poor timing | Rushing the decision | Let the ball come to you — resist the urge to lunge early |
| Wrong paddle angle | Not adjusting for spin or height | Practice with different incoming ball trajectories |
Training Your ATP
To develop a reliable ATP shot, try these drills:
- Angle Repetition Drill: Have a partner feed wide, low balls from the net. Practice the ATP motion 20 times on each side. Focus on paddle angle and short swing.
- Game Situation Drill: Play points where you start at the net and your partner feeds wide cross-court shots. Only use the ATP to finish the point. This builds real-match instincts.
- Target Practice: Place a towel or cone near the sideline, about 6-8 feet deep. Practice hitting ATP shots that land in that zone. Track your success rate.
The ATP is an advanced shot that requires practice and feel. Start incorporating it into your training sessions, and soon you’ll recognize opportunities in matches that you previously missed. When executed cleanly, the ATP not only wins the point but also sends a clear message to your opponent: you have options they can’t defend.
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