Pickleball: Playing Against Better Players – How to Compete and Learn

Facing better players in pickleball can be intimidating, but it’s also one of the best ways to elevate your game. Playing against more experienced opponents pushes you out of your comfort zone, forcing you to adapt and learn new techniques. Whether you’re looking to hold your own or simply use these matches as learning opportunities, here are some key strategies to help you improve and gain confidence on the court.

1. Focus on Consistency Over Power

One of the most common mistakes when playing against stronger opponents is trying to match their power. While it might seem tempting to hit hard, this can often lead to mistakes.

Prioritize Accuracy: Focus on hitting controlled, consistent shots. Rather than aiming for powerful shots, keep the ball in play and force your opponent to make errors. Experienced players often capitalize on your mistakes, so reducing your unforced errors gives you a better shot at staying competitive.
Use Smart Shot Placement: Instead of trying to out-hit them, use placement. Aim for the back corners, their weaker side, or areas that require them to move more. Precision can disrupt their rhythm.

Pro tip: Control the pace of the game by focusing on well-placed dinks and deep shots to make your opponent work harder.

2. Stay Composed Under Pressure

Better players tend to control the tempo of the game, making you feel rushed. The key to competing is staying calm, even when you feel the pressure building.

Slow It Down: Don’t let their fast pace dictate your game. Take your time between points, breathe deeply, and focus on executing your shots with precision.
Mental Resilience: Mistakes will happen, especially against more skilled players. Instead of getting frustrated, use each error as a learning moment and adjust your approach.

Pro tip: Between points, take a few seconds to breathe and regroup, keeping your mind clear and focused.

3. Learn From Their Strategy

Playing against better players gives you a unique chance to study their tactics up close. Pay attention to how they approach the game, and absorb as much as you can.

Observe Their Game: Take note of how they control the net, when they opt for certain shots, and how they react to different situations. This insight can help you refine your own strategies.
Adapt and Evolve: If they continuously target a weak area in your game, use that information to work on that skill. The more you learn from their tactics, the faster you’ll improve.

Pro tip: After the game, reflect on their playstyle and think about what you can incorporate into your own game.

4. Play to Your Strengths

Even if your opponent has more experience, you can still make the game competitive by leveraging your strengths.

Stick to What Works: Whether it’s a consistent serve, reliable backhand, or strong dinking game, use what you’re good at to keep them off balance.
Force Them Out of Their Comfort Zone: If you notice a particular weakness in their game, target it. Whether it’s slower footwork or a weaker side, playing to your strengths can give you an edge.

Pro tip: Don’t try to mimic their game. Focus on using your own skills and play style to your advantage.

5. Use the Match as a Learning Experience

The most important aspect of playing better players is learning. Each game offers valuable lessons on strategy, technique, and mental toughness.

Analyze After the Game: Reflect on what went well and where you struggled. Did your opponent exploit a particular weakness? Did they use tactics you’ve never encountered? Take note and practice those areas.
Seek Feedback: If you’re comfortable, ask your opponent for tips. More experienced players often have helpful advice that can accelerate your improvement.

Pro tip: Keep a journal of what you learn after each match. Over time, you’ll track your progress and identify areas to continue developing.

6. Control What You Can

You can’t control how skilled your opponent is, but you can control your own attitude, effort, and focus.

Stay Positive: A competitive mindset goes a long way. Even if you’re behind, staying positive and focused on each point can turn the game around.
Effort Matters: Even in tough matches, giving your all earns respect and teaches you more about your limits and strengths.

Pro tip: Focus on the process of improvement rather than the outcome of the match. Winning is a bonus, but learning is the real victory.

Final Thoughts

Playing pickleball against better players can be a humbling experience, but it’s also one of the fastest ways to grow. By focusing on consistency, learning from your opponent’s strategies, and playing to your strengths, you can hold your own on the court while gaining valuable insights into your own game. Each match is an opportunity to refine your skills and develop new strategies, and over time, you’ll find yourself competing at a higher level.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to win – it’s to improve, learn, and become a better pickleball player with every match.