Tips
Feb 11, 2025
Pickleball has gained immense popularity, and as the sport grows, so does the level of competition. Professional pickleball players exhibit strategic prowess that sets them apart. By analyzing their gameplay, amateur players can implement advanced techniques to improve their skills. This article delves into case studies of top players and the strategic lessons they offer.
Mastering the Third Shot Drop
A critical move in professional pickleball is the third shot drop, designed to neutralize the opponent’s advantage and transition into a stronger position at the net. Players like Ben Johns have mastered this technique, ensuring their shots land softly in the opponent’s kitchen, preventing an aggressive return.
Lesson for Amateurs: Practice controlled third shot drops to avoid putting yourself on the defensive and create an opportunity to advance.
Dinking with Purpose
Dinking is not just about keeping the ball low—it’s about strategy. Pro players use dinks to move opponents out of position, creating openings for attack. Anna Leigh Waters, for example, uses crosscourt dinks to test her opponent’s patience and footwork before delivering a sudden attack shot.
Lesson for Amateurs: Focus on dinking with intent, varying shot placement to force errors or create attack opportunities.
Targeting the Opponents’ Feet
One of the best ways to gain the upper hand is by aiming shots at an opponent’s feet, making it difficult to return with control. Tyson McGuffin often uses this strategy during fast-paced exchanges at the net.
Lesson for Amateurs: Instead of hitting shots waist-high where opponents can counter easily, practice keeping shots low and directed at their feet.
(Photo Source: https://www.ppatour.com/doubles-rallies-getting-shorter-in-2024/)
Deep Serves and Returns
Top players understand that a deep serve and return push opponents further back, making it harder for them to execute an effective third shot. Catherine Parenteau consistently delivers deep, well-placed returns, giving her an advantage by forcing the opposing team into a defensive position.
Lesson for Amateurs: Work on hitting deeper serves and returns to control the tempo of the game.
Court Positioning and Movement
Professional doubles teams move in unison, covering the court efficiently without leaving gaps. Riley and Lindsey Newman are known for their impeccable teamwork, shifting together to cover angles and minimize openings.
Lesson for Amateurs: Stay connected with your partner, moving as a unit to prevent being exploited by aggressive opponents.
Effective Communication in Doubles Play
Top players constantly communicate with their partners to ensure proper coverage. Short verbal cues such as “yours,” “mine,” or “switch” help maintain clarity during fast exchanges.
Lesson for Amateurs: Develop a habit of communicating with your partner to prevent confusion and unforced errors.
(Photo Source: https://www.ppatour.com/2024-will-tell-a-lot-about-the-future-of-tennis-stars-in-pickleball/)
Forehand Dominance in the Middle
In professional play, the stronger forehand usually takes precedence on shots down the middle. Ben Johns and his doubles partners often decide in advance who will take control of those shots.
Lesson for Amateurs: Determine with your partner who has the stronger forehand and let that player take middle shots whenever possible.
Patience and Shot Selection
Top players do not rush into attacking; they wait for the right opportunity. They engage in extended rallies, looking for slight openings before accelerating the pace.
Lesson for Amateurs: Avoid forcing a shot too soon. Instead, build up the point and wait for the right moment to attack.
Conclusion
By studying and implementing these strategies from elite players, amateur pickleball enthusiasts can significantly improve their game. Whether it’s mastering the third shot drop, improving court positioning, or making strategic shot selections, applying these lessons will lead to better performance and more competitive play on the court.
