If you’re stuck at a 3.5 or 4.0 pickleball rating and looking to break through, mastering three key shots can take you to the next level. Counterattacks, aggressive dinks, and deep returns are the critical techniques that distinguish advanced players from those just below the mark. While resetting is valuable at lower levels, the ability to attack back during a fast-paced rally is essential. Aggressive dinking and controlling the depth of your return are also pivotal in dominating the court.

Veterans in Pickleball emerged in 2022 during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to reconnect veterans with each other and their communities through the fast-growing sport of pickleball. Founded by veterans, the initiative blends physical activity with social engagement, helping veterans combat isolation while building camaraderie. The organization not only promotes pickleball but also fosters a sense of belonging that veterans often miss after military service.

Improving your pickleball game starts with identifying and correcting common mistakes that many players—regardless of experience level—tend to make. These mistakes can limit your potential and make it harder to enjoy the game at a higher level. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 mistakes that pickleball players make and provide practical solutions to help you fix them, so you can elevate your play, reduce frustration, and win more games.

Pickleball fans in Los Angeles have a new place to play: Vintage Land, home of the Los Feliz Flea market, will be adding three rooftop pickleball courts. Starting October 19, these courts, installed by Angel City Pickleball, offer daily access through a $50-a-month membership, which includes an introductory lesson and the option to bring guests. Though the courts sit on a two-story parking garage, players can enjoy scenic views of downtown L.A. while getting their game on, even during the weekend flea market.

Good footwork in pickleball is one of the most intimidating skills for opponents. When you’re in the right position, you control the game, whether attacking, dinking, or dropping. Additionally, many players make the mistake of moving prematurely, reacting before their opponent even hits the ball. This false movement slows down hand speed and reduces response time, making you less effective.

The turf war between tennis and pickleball is heating up as 10% of U.S. tennis courts have been repurposed for pickleball. With the rapid growth of pickleball participation, tensions are rising as both sports vie for court space. The USTA is concerned about tennis’s future and has initiated countermeasures, including Red Ball Tennis, to attract new players. Despite these efforts, the economic appeal of converting tennis courts into pickleball courts continues to drive the shift.

In pickleball, mastering the correct grip is crucial to enhancing your performance. Grips vary based on the type of shot you’re hitting, and using the wrong one can severely limit your game. Here’s a breakdown of the most common grips in pickleball and when they should be used.

QVC has signed a multiyear deal with USA Pickleball to become the exclusive broadcaster and retail industry partner for the sport. Starting with the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships in November, QVC will stream live pickleball events on its platform, QVC+/HSN+. This partnership aligns with QVC’s strategy to engage its audience, particularly women over 50, a demographic that has significantly embraced pickleball. According to Annette Dunleavy, QVC’s vice president of brand marketing, pickleball is not only the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. but also resonates deeply with their core audience, making the partnership a natural fit.

Pickleball’s increasing popularity has led to more reported injuries, particularly among older players. The most common injuries include wrist and lower leg fractures due to falls, as well as repetitive strain injuries similar to tennis elbow. While the sport offers great health benefits, it’s important for players—especially those over 50—to take precautions to prevent injuries.

Pickleball’s rise as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. isn’t just about its accessibility, but also the physics that make it unique. From ball speeds that can reach 65 mph with topspin to the loud “pop” sound produced by a paddle, the sport’s dynamics are driven by aerodynamics and acoustics. Engineer Phil Hipol, aka “Professor Pickleball,” breaks down these mechanics, explaining how ball trajectory, player reactions, and even the sound generated during a match are influenced by scientific principles.

Anna Leigh Waters is quickly becoming the highest-paid pickleball player in the world, with her agent projecting over $3 million in earnings for 2024. The 17-year-old phenom, who started pickleball after Hurricane Irma displaced her family in 2017, has dominated the sport, holding the No. 1 spot in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. She has signed endorsement deals with major brands like Fila and Carvana. As pickleball’s popularity grows, Waters is leading the charge, showing that both male and female players can find lucrative opportunities in the sport.

Pickleball is evolving from its traditionally slow-paced and left-side dominant nature into a fast, aggressive, two-sided sport. Historically, the player on the left side controlled the game while the right-side player mainly dinked and countered. But today’s pickleball features aggressive and dominant players on both sides of the court, signaling a new era in the sport where right-side players are stepping up and showing they can be just as impactful.

Pickleball Slam 2025 is bringing tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf back to defend their title, this time against Andy Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard. With a $1 million prize on the line, the event will take place at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on Feb. 16, airing on ESPN. After two successful events in Florida, this will be the Slam’s first Vegas edition, expecting over 6,750 attendees. Agassi, returning to his hometown, looks to continue his undefeated streak in the Pickleball Slam series.

Former tennis champion Andy Roddick is making a surprising pivot to acting by joining Ben Stiller in a new pickleball comedy called The Dink. The film will follow Jake Johnson as a washed-up tennis pro who reluctantly plays pickleball to win back his father’s respect. The cast also features Hollywood heavyweights Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris. Stiller and Roddick are expected to play significant supporting roles, marking a big moment for the tennis star’s acting career. Production begins in November, and the film will be available on Hulu.

The upscale retirement community of Rossmoor has become a microcosm of growing political tensions nationwide, escalating after a heated pickleball brawl over Donald Trump. A physical altercation between two women ignited deeper issues around free speech, leading to the imposition of restrictions on political commentary and public demonstrations. Critics argue these policies infantilize seniors, likening them to being in a high school cafeteria. The dispute reveals broader concerns about curbing dissent in a community historically active in civil rights movements.

Pickleball is more than just a fun pastime—it offers numerous health benefits for players of all ages. The game helps boost cardiovascular fitness by keeping your heart pumping and muscles engaged, improving overall strength and endurance. Additionally, the social aspect of pickleball enhances mental well-being, making it an excellent activity for both body and mind. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, it’s a low-impact sport that can be enjoyed by everyone while promoting physical fitness and social connections.

If you’re looking to master the lob shot in pickleball, there are two simple strategies that can drastically improve your game. First, aim your lobs to your opponent’s backhand, making it harder for them to smash the ball. Many players struggle with power on their non-dominant side, giving you an advantage. Second, consider when to hit the lob. Disguising it during a dink rally, especially when your opponent expects a speed-up shot, is key to catching them off-guard and scoring easy points.

Pickleball is taking over the National Mall once again, with the highly anticipated return of the National Mall of Pickleball from September 27-29. Hosted by The Trust for the National Mall and Humana, this event will feature tournaments, clinics, and open play at the JFK Hockey Fields. With additional courts added this year, spots are expected to fill up fast. Players can now register for a free hour of doubles play, with paddles and balls available at no cost. Special events include a DMV invitational, university matches, and media competitions.

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.