Stuck at 3.5? Here’s How to Play Like a 5.0!

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.

Counterattacking starts by shifting from a defensive reset to an offensive strike. It’s all about changing your paddle angle and staying grounded to effectively return attacks with force. This also involves positioning yourself to favor the backhand, which covers more ground and offers more consistency under pressure. Aggressive dinking, meanwhile, adds pressure to your opponent by incorporating topspin and taking the ball out of the air to reduce their reaction time.

Lastly, the return of serve can be an underestimated shot, but it can make or break a point. Deep returns force your opponent back and delay their attack at the net. Practice is key—hit the return from behind the baseline, moving forward into your shot to maintain control and placement. By focusing on these three shots, along with plenty of drilling, you’ll see your game level up.