Competing with More Skilled Pickleball Players: Winning Strategies
Competing with More Skilled Pickleball Players: Winning Strategies
Level Up by Playing Up
Learn how to compete with stronger players by staying smart, sharp, and strategically sound, no matter the score.
Why Playing Up Is Good for You
The fastest way to grow your game
Facing better players challenges your weaknesses, improves your decision-making, and forces you to raise your level. It may be humbling but it’s also a critical part of becoming a smarter, more complete player.
How to Compete Against Better Players
You don’t need to outplay them, just outthink them
- Remain consistent: Do not attempt to score on every single shot.
- Use your strengths: Play the game you generally play, not the game your opponents want you to play.
- Aim for high-percentage areas: Hit to the center of the court and stay away from the sidelines. The net is lower in the middle.
- Reset under pressure: Do not speed up the ball unless you are in an advantageous position. The opponent may counterstrike without you being prepared.
- Vary tempo and spin: Adjust the rhythm to disrupt timing.
- Remain patient: Make them to win the point, rather than letting excessive emotions lead you to defeat yourself.
Common Mistakes
Trying to Hit Like Them
What works for them may not work for youAttempting to imitate their shot speed or complexity usually results in unforced errors. Stay within your comfort zone. Make clean contact your first priority. Then, focus on solid footwork and finishing your shots with strategic placement.
Playing Too Safe
Play that is anxious and cautious follows from fearWhen facing pressure, don’t freeze, and don’t push. Instead, play with controlled aggression. Make smart, confident shots when the moment demands it
Mental Collapse After Losing Points
Finishing early doesn't mean you're finishedWhen the scoreboard is not in your favor, it’s simple to go into a tailspin. Concentrate on just one moment, one point at a time. Be present in that moment, reset your headspace, and make a commitment to treat each rally as an entirely new opportunity.
Smart Targeting Strategy
Play the percentages, not the heroes
- Hit to the weaker player in doubles if there’s a gap in skill.
- Aim for the feet or backhand to reduce attacking chances.
- Target the middle to reduce errors and create confusion.
- Move them with angles and drops instead of speed.
Use Their Pace Against Them
Let them supply the power
When they hit hard, you don’t need to. Use their pace to block, redirect, or reset into the kitchen.
Stay loose and compact. Focus on paddle control over swinging back.
Learn While You Play
Don’t just survive, absorb
Playing better players is a free lesson. Watch their footwork, shot selection, and transitions. Ask questions after the game or take mental notes during breaks.
Drills to Prepare for Stronger Opponents
Train to keep up before you catch up
- Consistency Drills: Work on 30-shot rallies to build error-free discipline.
- Block & Reset Drills: Practice handling power at the kitchen.
- Serve & Return Drills: Focus on depth and precision.
- Pressure Drills: Simulate “game point” situations to build mental toughness.
Final Thought: You Belong on the Court
Rising in the ranks doesn’t mean you retreat and regroup
Everyone you admire in athletics started from ground zero. Coaches and great players respect not only talent, but also and equally, the kind of mojo that gets you through to the other side. Show ’em that you’re one part skill, one part hard work, and all parts hungry to improve, and they’ll welcome you into their fold.
