Top 5 Pickleball Trick Shots to Impress Your Opponents

Pickleball has evolved far beyond its reputation as a casual backyard pastime. Today, it’s a fast-paced, strategic sport that rewards creativity as much as precision.

While strong fundamentals are nonnegotiable, players who learn to blend skill with a touch of flair can transform routine rallies into moments of pure spectacle.

Enter the world of trick shots - those bold, unexpected plays that not only test your control but also keep your opponents guessing and your audience entertained.

1. Around-the-Post Shot

Few shots in pickleball generate more applause than the Around-the-Post (ATP).

It’s a daring yet legitimate way to score when the ball travels wide of the court. Instead of aiming over the net, you drive the ball around the post, landing it cleanly in your opponent’s court.

The key lies in footwork and timing - get close enough to the sideline to open your angle, and use either a forehand or backhand to guide the shot with controlled spin.

With repetition, you’ll find that a well-executed ATP can shift the momentum of an entire match.

That said, experienced players are increasingly anticipating the ATP and responding with highly technical counterplays.

You rarely see ATPs during singles matches, but in this video, you will see an ATP and the counter shot actually being the winner.

2. The No-Look Shot

Subtle but devastating, the No-Look Shots combines deception with finesse.

Rather than locking your gaze on the ball, you keep your eyes on your opponent while softly dinking the ball over the net or accelerating it for an attack.

The result is a shot that disrupts rhythm and psychology alike. This move works best when your short game is already consistent - it’s less about flash and more about confidence and control under pressure.

It’s not so common to hit no-look shots, but when done effectively, they can win the rally. This video shows just how deceptive a no-look shot can be.

3. Behind-the-Back Shot

Every player has faced that awkward moment when the ball catches them off guard or spins behind them.

Instead of conceding the point, turn it into an opportunity.

The Behind-the-Back shot is as much about improvisation as it is about style.

With quick reflexes and steady coordination, you can redirect the ball while maintaining your position for the next rally.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that rewards players willing to practice the fundamentals of timing and touch. Before trying it yourself, take a look at an example here.

4. The Fake Smash

Powerful smashes can intimidate, but so can restraint.

The Fake Smash plays on your opponent’s expectations - mimic the full motion of a power shot, only to deliver a gentle drop or dink instead.

The contrast between your setup and execution forces hesitation and opens up the court for your next move.

This shot works particularly well when you’ve already established your ability to hit hard overheads, making the feint even more believable.

As seen here, it can be a very high-risk shot; however, when done successfully, it will completely throw off your opponent.

5. The Erne (and Bert)

Few shots capture the energy of modern pickleball quite like the Erne and its daring variation, the Bert.

The Erne involves timing a precise leap or step outside the kitchen to volley the ball in midair near the net post, often catching opponents off guard before they can react.

It’s a legal and dynamic play that rewards anticipation and quick footwork.

The Bert takes that same concept one step further - literally - by having your partner execute the Erne on your side of the court, creating an unexpected cross-court attack.

Both shots require chemistry, court awareness, and courage, but when executed cleanly, they can electrify a rally and shift momentum in your favour.

Check out this video clip - a rare rally that features both shots, with the Bert coming first and the Erne following.

Bringing Creativity to the Court

Pickleball’s charm lies in its balance of strategy, athleticism, and self-expression.

Trick shots aren’t just for show - they’re tools for breaking patterns, unsettling opponents, and keeping the game fun.

Mastery comes with patience, so approach these shots as both a technical challenge and a creative outlet.

With practice, you’ll not only improve your versatility but also discover a new layer of joy in every match.

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