How to Compete with Advanced Players in Pickleball
At Voxl Pickleball, we know that one of the biggest challenges on the court is facing someone more experienced, more consistent, or simply more aggressive than you. It can be intimidating to play against stronger opponents, but it can also be one of the best opportunities to grow as a player. The key isn’t just to survive the match—it’s to outthink, outmaneuver, and outlast with smart strategy, not sheer force.
This guide is designed for players who are looking to close the gap when the skill levels don’t quite match. Whether you're competing in a friendly rec match or entering a local tournament, these tactics will help you stay competitive, shift momentum, and even steal a few wins when the odds feel stacked.
Play High-Percentage Pickleball
When facing better players, the first thing to understand is that low-percentage shots won't win you the match. Risky line drives, low-percentage lobs, or trying to overpower your opponent often backfire. Instead, focus on playing high-percentage, low-error pickleball.
This means:
- Keeping shots in play.
- Hitting deep returns.
- Resetting instead of forcing attacks.
The longer the rally goes, the more likely the stronger player will make a mistake or give you a ball you can capitalize on. Patience is your greatest asset.
Not sure what’s holding you back from the next level? Discover the skills and mindset shifts that make a difference in How to Effectively Transition from a Novice to an Intermediate Player.
Slow the Game Down When Needed
Stronger players often thrive in fast-paced exchanges. They’re used to controlling the tempo, pushing pressure, and speeding up at the kitchen. One of the smartest tactics is to disrupt their rhythm by slowing the game down.
Use soft dinks, controlled resets, and high, looping returns to buy yourself time and neutralize their pace. This isn’t about stalling—it’s about creating a tempo that benefits your strengths and prevents your opponent from getting into a groove.
Identify Their Weaknesses
Even the best players have holes in their game. Your job is to find them.
Watch closely for:
- Inconsistent backhands.
- Poor movement on drop shots or wide dinks.
- Weak returns under pressure.
Once you find a crack, go after it with consistency. Don’t just attack once—force them to prove they can handle it again and again. Repetition reveals weaknesses faster than flashy shots.
Master the Art of Resetting
Resetting is your secret weapon against aggressive opponents. When you’re under pressure or get pulled out of position, resetting lets you neutralize the point and start fresh.
Use resets when:
- Your opponent attacks with speed and you can’t counter.
- You’re off balance and need time to recover.
- A rally is escalating too fast for your comfort.
A soft drop into the kitchen can be just as deadly as a power shot when timed right. Make it your go-to tool when things feel overwhelming.
Play to Your Strengths
It’s tempting to try to beat stronger players at their game. But that almost never works. Instead, lean into what you do well.
Are you consistent with your dinks? Use them to force long rallies. Do you have a reliable third-shot drop? Use it to get to the net early. Are you comfortable moving laterally? Extend rallies and bait errors.
Confidence comes from consistency. If you can do something well, do it often—even if it’s simple.
Force the Middle
One of the most effective tactics against higher-level players is to play to the middle. The center of the court often causes confusion in doubles and reduces angles for attacks.
Benefits of hitting to the middle:
- Less risk of hitting out.
- Creates miscommunication between opponents.
- Limits sharp cross-court winners.
When in doubt, aim middle and keep it low. Let them decide who’s taking the shot.
Ready to take control at the kitchen? Build smarter movement, sharper volleys, and better teamwork in Improving Your Pickleball Net Game: Intermediate Strategies.
Shorten the Court with Drop Shots
Stronger players often play deep and are great at covering the baseline. A short, well-placed drop shot can pull them out of position and create open space behind them.
Drop shots are especially useful when:
- Your opponent is expecting a deep drive.
- They’re slow to move forward.
- You want to disrupt their rhythm.
Once they’re pulled forward, you can test them with a lob or a sharp volley into the corner. Variety is your ally.
Keep Moving Forward
Against stronger opponents, court positioning becomes even more important. The goal is to get to the net and stay there as much as possible.
Use smart third-shot drops and patient transitions to work your way in. If you get pushed back, look for opportunities to reset and re-approach. Don’t get stuck in the transition zone—that’s where stronger players dominate.
Once you’re at the kitchen, stay alert and maintain pressure. A well-timed volley or soft dink can shift momentum quickly.
Want to land more shots exactly where you aim? Learn how to improve your precision and confidence in Improving Accuracy: How to Hit Consistent Shots in Pickleball.
Communicate Constantly in Doubles
When playing doubles, good communication can help compensate for differences in skill. Call every shot. Plan who covers what. Support each other vocally.
Strategies for better doubles communication:
- Call out “Yours!” or “Mine!” loud and early.
- Discuss return and serve placement before each point.
- Help each other reset emotionally after tough rallies.
A unified team can punch above its weight against technically stronger opponents.
Let Errors Build
One of the most underrated tactics is letting the stronger player make mistakes. This means playing with discipline and not trying to hit winners on every point.
Stronger players often feel the pressure to dominate, and that can lead to:
- Over-aggressive shots.
- Risky serves.
- Unforced errors from frustration.
Your job is to stay steady, play smart, and give them opportunities to mess up. Over time, patience becomes power.
Use Timeouts and Pauses Wisely
Don’t be afraid to take a timeout or slow things down when the game is getting away from you. A short pause can:
- Break their momentum.
- Let you regroup and adjust strategy.
- Shift the energy back in your favor.
Even small pauses between points can help reset your focus and frustrate an opponent who thrives on speed.
Ready to Challenge Up?
Facing stronger opponents is where real improvement happens. It forces you to focus, adapt, and develop strategies that make you more efficient and resilient. Every game against a tougher opponent is a chance to learn how to think smarter, stay composed, and win on your terms.
At Voxl Pickleball, we design equipment that performs under pressure. Whether you’re softening pace with finesse or fighting fire with power, our lineup of Voxl paddles (including the Whip, Flex, and Flow), high-quality pickleballs, reliable portable nets, and performance-ready apparel are built to support your evolving game.
Explore our gear today and step into every match—no matter who you're facing—with confidence.
Related Questions
How can I stay calm against better opponents?
Breathe between points, focus on your strengths, and aim for consistency. Don’t rush or overreact—play your game.
What if I keep getting stuck in the transition zone?
Use a third-shot drop or a reset to move forward. Stay low, balanced, and avoid hitting while on the run.
Is it better to play aggressive or defensive?
Against stronger players, start by playing smart and consistent. Choose when to attack based on opportunity, not emotion.
How do I find my opponent's weakness?
Watch their reactions to different shots. Test their backhand, depth coverage, and movement with consistent placement.