Palm Desert Teen Aims to Master Pickleball's Two-Handed Backhand Drop

Daniel Yi, a top junior player, shares a pro tip for improving this advanced shot.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:20pm

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Daniel Yi, a 19-year-old high school graduate from Palm Desert, California, is one of the top junior pickleball players in the U.S. and is hoping to make the sport his career. Yi is sharing a pro tip on how to master the two-handed backhand drop shot, an advanced technique that can add another valuable tool to a player's arsenal.

Why it matters

Pickleball has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, especially among younger players. As the sport continues to grow, up-and-coming talents like Daniel Yi are helping to push the boundaries of what's possible and inspiring others to take their game to the next level.

The details

The two-handed backhand drop shot is a technique that the pros use to softly place the ball just over the net, making it difficult for opponents to return. While it may be a bit advanced for some players, mastering this shot can give a significant advantage on the court.

  • Daniel Yi graduated from Palm Desert High School in 2026.

The players

Daniel Yi

A 19-year-old high school graduate from Palm Desert, California, who is one of the top junior pickleball players in the U.S. and is hoping to make the sport his career.

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The takeaway

As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, especially among younger players, up-and-coming talents like Daniel Yi are pushing the boundaries of the sport and inspiring others to improve their skills and take their game to the next level.