Mental Mistakes Are Costing Players the Game: In pickleball, mental mistakes can cost players the game just as much as physical errors. A recent match between a 53rd-ranked team and top players Matt Wright and Lucy Kovalova at a pickleball tournament showed how emotional and strategic blunders can shift momentum.
Despite a promising 6-1 lead in the third game, the underdog team lost the match after allowing their opponents to rally and close the game with a 7-0 run. The key takeaway? The turning point wasn’t just about skill—it was a mental lapse.
1. Handling Emotional Rollercoasters
Emotions can overwhelm players in crucial moments, negatively impacting their performance. After a missed shot or a bad call, many players allow frustration to creep in. A mental reset is crucial here. Taking a deep breath can calm the nerves and help reset focus. According to The Inner Game of Tennis, focusing on breathing can prevent negative emotions from spiraling into further mistakes.
2. Not Having Clear Targets
Top pickleball players don’t just play; they play with purpose. Without clear goals in mind, players are more likely to fall into a “hit and hope” strategy. In high-level matches, players have specific targets for every shot. Whether aiming at the opponent’s weaker side, hitting to the backhand, or targeting the player on the move, players increase their chance of success by knowing exactly where to place each shot.
3. Poor Shot Selection
Players often fail to make the best shot choices during key moments. Instead of judging shots by whether they are “good” or “bad,” players should consider where a shot falls on the shot selection scale. Shots that are risky and put the player at a disadvantage (like a “3”) should be avoided, while higher-percentage shots (like a “9”) should be prioritized. Selecting safer, smarter shots increases the chances of winning the point.
4. Not Using Timeouts Strategically
Timeouts can be a game-changer in pickleball. When faced with tough situations, players often forget to use timeouts to reassess their strategies and calm down. Timeouts should be used wisely, especially when a team is trailing. It’s essential to focus on what’s working and what isn’t during the break. Positive reinforcement helps reset the team’s mental state and focus on improving.
5. Late-Game Hero Mode
In the heat of a match, some players try to play the hero by attempting risky, game-changing shots. While this may seem like a way to win big, it often leads to costly mistakes. Instead of relying on risky shots, players should stick to their game plan. Staying disciplined during critical moments prevents unnecessary errors that could turn the match in the opponent’s favor.
News in Brief: Mental Mistakes Are Costing Players the Game
Mental mistakes in pickleball can lead to major losses. Players should focus on managing emotions, setting clear targets, choosing safe shots, using timeouts, and avoiding risky late-game plays to enhance their performance. Understanding these common mental pitfalls can help players succeed in any pickleball event or tournament.
ALSO READ: 7 Common Pickleball Mistakes Everyone Makes—And How to Fix Them