I had great expectations when it came to our years as empty nesters. I had heard it was the best time in a marriage, a period to travel the world, reconnect as a couple, sleep late on weekends unapologetically. But last year, my husband discovered pickleball.

Private pickleball courts may be the next target in the ongoing noise war, and Ross, CA, could be leading the charge. The affluent Marin County town is mulling a ban on private courts due to the sport’s incessant noise, which reaches twice the volume of tennis. With public complaints already stacking up across the country, this may signal a broader trend. As pickleball’s popularity grows, so do the conflicts with non-players, potentially setting the stage for stricter court regulations nationwide.

Pickleball may seem straightforward, but some rules trip up even seasoned players. From calling the ball out to navigating the kitchen line, these common mistakes lead to frustration on the court. One major confusion revolves around calling a ball “out”—players must see a clear space between the ball and the line. Serving rules also baffle players, especially regarding height and the kitchen line. Understanding these rules not only keeps games fair but also helps build confidence when dealing with disputes.

If you want to take your pickleball game to the next level, drilling at home or against a wall can be an excellent way to practice and refine your skills. While nothing beats time on the court, at-home drills can significantly improve touch, reflexes, and Top Spin, all while offering the flexibility of solo practice. With a focus on technique, consistency, and precision, these drills allow you to maintain and elevate your pickleball skills, preparing you for intense rallies and strategic points when you hit the court. Let’s explore the best drills to enhance your game.

Pickleball requires a mix of agility, timing, and strategic decision-making. To dominate the court, you must master key movements and responses for different game situations. Below are some essential strategies every advanced player should know, including shot choices, positioning, and how to handle different opponent tactics.

The 2025 professional pickleball calendar is shaping up to be a monumental year for fans of the sport. The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has announced an impressive lineup of 14 main tour stops, along with 20 new events and 8 NextGen competitions. Meanwhile, the Pro Pickleball Association (PPA) is planning an equally full slate, including a new “Challenger” tour. On top of that, the Major League Pickleball (MLP) is expected to host 12-14 events, while the newly introduced Pickleball World Ranking (PWR) promises major prize pools.

Quick hands are essential for mastering volleys in pickleball, and it all starts with your paddle position. The optimal stance involves holding the paddle at the 11 o’clock position, favoring your backhand. This stance allows players to react quickly to body shots and switch to forehands efficiently. Whether the ball is coming fast or slow, maintaining a stable ready position reduces unnecessary movement and helps you stay in control.

Driving versus dropping the ball in pickleball can significantly impact the outcome of a rally. Driving is ideal when the ball is short and high, allowing you to apply pressure on your opponents. However, if the ball is short and low, it’s better to drop it, keeping the pace slow. If your opponent is late getting to the kitchen line, a drive can capitalize on their vulnerability, while topspin or backspin from your opponent may also influence whether you opt for a drive or a drop.

Jack Sock’s transition from tennis to pickleball is highlighted by his forehand technique, blending power, precision, and deception. His forehand is built on five key elements: footwork, grip, unit load, swing motion, and follow-through. Sock uses his legs to generate power, often adopting an open or semi-closed stance. By stepping into the ball with his dominant leg and maintaining a continental grip, Sock can disguise his shots, making it difficult for opponents to predict whether he’ll hit down-the-line or cross-court. His forehand’s explosive motion comes from a compact swing, where he rotates through his hips and keeps his paddle face slightly downward during the swing.

More and more homeowners with private pickleball courts are discovering a way to turn their passion for the game into a lucrative side business. By listing their courts on apps like Swimply, they’re able to share their amenities with others and earn extra income in the process. Take Michael Thompson, for instance, a retired teacher in San Diego, who built a vibrant backyard pickleball court. What started as a personal retirement project quickly turned into a profitable venture, bringing in $1,600 in the first year alone through rentals.

Donald Young, a former tennis prodigy turned professional pickleball player, made a surprising return to tennis during the 2024 US Open in the mixed doubles category. Partnering with Taylor Townsend, they advanced to the semifinals after several electrifying matches. This comeback highlighted Young’s last moment in competitive tennis, as he’s now focused on pickleball. Despite their efforts, the duo fell short in the finals, marking the end of Young’s tennis career, but reminding fans of his enduring athletic prowess.

The Ed Brown Center is making another bid to bring pickleball courts to Rancho Bernardo Community Park, proposing a plan to construct 16 courts on a site previously used for lawn bowling. Despite initial opposition and a plan for a multi-recreational grass field, the center's board is determined to try again, fueled by community support and a petition boasting over 1,500 signatures. With funding fully pledged and an estimated 90-day construction timeline for phase one, advocates hope this time their vision for a pickleball haven will be realized.

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Bainbridge Island, Washington, lies a special place that every pickleball enthusiast dreams of visiting—the birthplace of the sport itself. On any given day, regardless of the weather, the Founders Courts are abuzz with players from all walks of life, from seasoned athletes to college students enjoying their break. This isn’t just a place to play pickleball; it’s a community built on the legacy of the game’s origin. Whether you’re here to pay homage to the original court or to soak in the rich history displayed at the Founders Courts, Bainbridge Island offers a unique pilgrimage experience for all who have fallen in love with pickleball.

As the 2024 US Open Tennis Championship takes center stage in Flushing Meadows, Hamptonites are embracing their own racquet sport frenzy at a new wave of exclusive clubs that blend high-end wellness with top-notch sports facilities. These aren’t your grandfather’s country clubs; they’re chic, social hubs where members are treated to more than just beautifully maintained courts—they’re indulged with stunning views, luxurious spas, personal trainers, and Michelin-starred dining experiences. NAOA in East Hampton, a prime example, offers an elite experience where $30,000 initiation fees and $12,000 annual dues grant access to ten tennis courts, four pickleball courts, and a full suite of wellness amenities.

The Arizona Pickleball League has taken center stage in a new docuseries, “Breaking Pickleball,” now streaming on Amazon Prime. This six-episode series offers an in-depth look at the Scottsdale-based league’s inaugural Spring 2023 season, following five competitive teams: The Scottsdale Scorchers, Gilbert Gladiators, Peoria Pythons, Tempe Tornadoes, and Surprise Stinger. The series captures the intense journey of each team as they battle through the regular season and playoffs, culminating in the Orchard Championship Cup. “Breaking Pickleball” is not just a documentary about the sport but a heartfelt exploration of the determination and passion driving these players to be the best.

This Labor Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate the sweat, grit, and unyielding spirit that builds our communities, one hard day’s work at a time. Whether you’re swinging a paddle on the pickleball court or just swinging by the BBQ, remember that every job—big or small—adds a stitch to the fabric of our shared lives. So, here’s to the dreamers, the doers, and everyone in between! May your day be filled with laughter, good company, and a well-deserved break. Happy Labor Day from the Crenshaw Pickleball Club—where hard work and fun always meet in the middle!

We recently had the opportunity to play the Genesis by Redeemed Pickleball. The Genesis is a Toray T700 Raw Carbon Fiber Thermoformed Pickleball Paddle designed for intermediate to professional play. The genesis is a 16mm paddle which comes in ranging from 7.4 to 8.1 oz and a 4.25” grip.

Our play testers, including myself, loved the Genesis. At first glance we assumed the Genesis would be all power, with its gritty raw carbon surface and aerodynamic design, but were pleasantly surprised with its agility. The Genesis has plenty of pop and spin when you need it, but has excellent control on dinks and drops.

A Massachusetts couple’s attempt to sell their million-dollar Cape Cod home has turned into a legal dispute due to the continuous noise from neighboring pickleball courts. Despite their property’s ideal location near Sagamore Beach, Judith Comeau and her husband couldn’t find a buyer after eight months on the market, with potential buyers being deterred by the constant sound of pickleball. After slashing the price from $1.3 million to $995,000, they ultimately delisted the home. The couple claims that the noise from the four nearby private pickleball courts, built by the Sagamore Beach Colony Club, has rendered their property unsellable, leading them to consider legal action against the club.

Pickleball serves are often underestimated, but they are one of the most crucial shots in the game, and mastering them can significantly elevate your performance. Drawing inspiration from professional players, this guide breaks down 20 advanced serving strategies that range from generating more power to precise ball placement. By incorporating these tips, you'll not only enhance the speed and accuracy of your serves but also use mind games to outsmart your opponents, setting up your points for success right from the start.

The difference between a 4.0 and a 5.0 pickleball player is significant, and understanding these key distinctions can elevate your game. A 5.0 player doesn't just rely on consistent third-shot drops; they mix in drives, lobs, and use advanced decision-making to adapt to each situation. Their anticipation of opponents' shots allows them to exploit gaps and counter effectively. Additionally, 5.0 players are masters of spin, choosing the right type for each situation rather than just what's comfortable, and their positioning and movement on the court are always purposeful and strategic.