The Biggest Pickleball Mistakes You Don’t Even Know You’re Making

Pickleball is a game of precision, strategy, and quick decision-making. But even the most enthusiastic players can fall into bad habits that limit their growth. The biggest mistake most players make? Poor shot selection. It’s easy to fall into patterns that feel right in the moment but ultimately put you at a disadvantage. Whether it’s forcing a hands battle, hitting straight into an opponent’s strengths, or failing to recognize when to attack, these errors can cost you points—and games. By understanding key shot selection mistakes, you can instantly elevate your level of play.

One of the most common errors is getting tunnel vision during fast exchanges. Players tend to hammer shots directly at the opponent in front of them, even when they’re losing the battle. Instead of continuing a power struggle, smart players recognize the opportunity to redirect to the opponent’s partner, disrupting their rhythm. Similarly, many players fail to assess their opponent’s weaknesses, constantly feeding shots into their strengths. If someone has a dominant backhand counterattack, for example, you’re better off testing their forehand speed-up response. Every opponent has a weak spot—your job is to find it and exploit it.

Another game-changing mistake? Not punishing weak shots. If an opponent hits a bad drop, many players fall into the habit of defaulting to a dink instead of attacking aggressively. When a ball sits above net height, it’s an open invitation to apply pressure—whether it’s a roll volley or a straight put-away. Smart players recognize these opportunities and capitalize on them. Understanding when to attack, when to reset, and when to aim at an opponent’s feet instead of their paddle can make the difference between an average player and a dominant one. The best players aren’t just technically sound—they make the smartest choices on the court.