Top 5 Pickleball Strategies for Winning Matches

Pickleball may look simple at first glance, but winning consistently requires more than just hitting the ball over the net. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, having the right strategies can give you a clear edge over your opponents. Here are the top 5 pickleball strategies to help you dominate your matches in 2025.

1. Master the “Third Shot Drop”

The third shot drop is one of the most important techniques in pickleball. After serving and returning, your third shot can set the tone for the entire rally.

• Instead of driving the ball hard, try a soft drop shot that lands in the opponent’s non-volley zone (the “kitchen”).
• This forces your opponents to hit upward, giving you and your partner time to advance to the net.
• A good third shot drop turns defense into offense.

2. Control the Kitchen Line

The non-volley zone, also known as the “kitchen,” is where games are won or lost.

• Move up quickly after serving or returning so you can control the net area.
• At the kitchen line, you have better angles, quicker reaction times, and more opportunities to finish points.
• Avoid hanging back at the baseline, where it’s harder to win rallies.

3. Use Dinking to Your Advantage

Dinking — the soft, controlled shots at the net — is a vital part of pickleball strategy.

• Keep the ball low and force your opponent into making mistakes.
• Mix up your dink placement by targeting both forehands and backhands.
• Stay patient — wait for your opponent to pop the ball up before going for an aggressive shot.

A strong dinking game turns long rallies into opportunities for precision winners.

4. Target Your Opponent’s Weakness

Every player has a weaker side — often the backhand.

• Consistently hit shots to your opponent’s weaker area to create errors.
• In doubles, target the weaker player and keep pressure on them.
• Use placement, not just power, to stay in control of rallies.

Smart players win by exploiting weaknesses, not by hitting the hardest shots.

5. Communicate and Play Smart Doubles

If you’re playing doubles, communication is just as important as technique.

• Call shots clearly so you and your partner avoid confusion.
• Cover your zones effectively — one player should take middle balls if stronger.
• Work together to control the kitchen line and set each other up for finishing shots.

Good doubles teams rely on teamwork and strategy, not just individual skill.

Final Thoughts

Winning in pickleball isn’t about who can hit the hardest — it’s about strategy, placement, and patience. By mastering the third shot drop, controlling the kitchen, using dinks, targeting weaknesses, and communicating with your partner, you’ll see your game improve dramatically.

So grab your paddle, apply these strategies, and start turning close matches into confident wins!

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