Hitting the perfect ATP is a true highlight-reel moment.  Check out that 11-year-old player at The Dink Minor League National Championship for example; that was definitely the shot of the year. 

But despite how flashy it looks, a great ATP isn’t about swinging as hard as possible. It’s actually a high-percentage, aggressive shot built on anticipation, patience, and smart targeting.

The best ATPs happen when you read the play early, let the ball clear the post, and swing around the ball with intention and not through it. When executed correctly, the ATP isn’t just a crowd-pleaser, it’s a controlled, repeatable weapon you can trust in tight moments.

Here are three simple keys to executing an ATP the right way:

1) Anticipate It Early

The ATP opportunity usually shows itself before the ball ever gets there. As soon as your opponent pulls you wide with a sharp cross-court dink, start expecting it. Read the angle early and use a quick crossover step to get into position faster.

2) Wait and Let the Ball Clear the Post

This is where most players rush the shot. Don’t. Be patient and allow the ball to fully pass the post before you swing. Waiting that extra beat gives you the space you need to hit around the net cleanly and with control.

3) Swing Around the Ball with Purpose

This isn’t a straight-through swing. Cup your wrist slightly and brush the outside of the ball. Your goal is to wrap the ball around the net, not drive through it.

• If the ball is very close to the net → aim for a sharp, short angle
  
  
• If the ball is a little farther from the net → target deeper toward the back corner
  
  

The ATP may grab the highlight, but the best ones are built on these fundamentals: reading the play early, staying patient, and choosing the right target. When you stop forcing the shot and start trusting the process, the ATP becomes less of a gamble and more of a reliable weapon.

Keep working on these details in practice, and you’ll start seeing more ATP opportunities, and converting more of them in real matches.

For more on-court tips, strategy breakdowns, and insights from top players and coaches, check out our Pickleball Tips section on our blogs page and make sure to follow @DUPRpb on both Instagram and Facebook.

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