Stop Losing Points: Avoid These Common Pickleball Mistakes"

Pickleball players often make critical mistakes that cost them points. One common error is attempting cute drop shots that try to barely clear the net. While it might seem tempting to execute these delicate shots, they often lead to errors, giving the opponent easy points. Instead, players should focus on keeping their opponents deep, forcing pop-ups that are easier to smash away for high-percentage points.

Another frequent mistake is hitting overhead shots straight into the net. To avoid this, players should adjust their target, aiming deeper into the court instead of down. By changing the swing direction from downwards to outwards, players can prevent these unnecessary faults. Additionally, avoiding hitting shots while falling backward is crucial. When moving back, it’s important to reset and step into the ball, transferring momentum forward to maintain power and accuracy.

Finally, players often make the mistake of speeding up shots crosscourt during rallies. This gives the opponent too much time to react, often leading to an easy put-away. Instead, focus on speeding up shots down the line, where the opponent has less time to respond. This tactic not only sets up potential winners but also keeps the opponent on their toes, increasing the chances of winning the point.