The Real Reason You’re Losing Points (Hint: It’s Not Your Paddle)

Even the sharpest players miss a shot now and then, but there’s a difference between a mechanical error and a mental one. This breakdown of three mental mistakes shows how even players with crisp technique can hand over points like they’re gift-wrapping them. Whether it’s trying to out-angle your opponent in a dink battle, launching an attack from a hopeless position, or treating every third shot drop like it’s a delicate surgery, these mental traps are quietly bleeding away your potential. Recognizing them is the first step—fixing them will save you points you didn’t even realize you were losing.

Let’s start with the crosscourt dink duel, where the ego often jumps in with a game plan. Your opponent gives you a high-skill angle, and instead of resetting with control, you try to one-up them—wider, riskier, dumber. Instead of holding your position and sending the ball toward the middle to recover, you chase the highlight reel and end up in the net (or worse). Mental mistake number two? The “attack at all costs” mentality. Trying to speed up a ball below the knees isn’t brave—it’s just gifting your opponent a sitter. Patience is the antidote. Wait for the ball you should attack, not the one you wish you could.

Finally, perfectionism on third shot drops is costing points more than it’s winning admiration. That obsession with keeping every ball unattackable is exhausting—and unrealistic. Even pros get their thirds volleyed. The key isn’t perfection—it’s margin. Leave some height, be okay with playing a fifth or even a seventh shot drop, and hold your ground. Or, if your drop isn’t reliable yet, use your drive to create your opportunity. There’s no shame in earning the net position through patience instead of precision.