Pickleball Speed-Up Strategy: A professional pickleball player is teaching players how to know the right time to speed up during matches. The advice, based on careful strategy and player experience, gives simple steps for deciding when to attack and how to gain an advantage on the court.
Understanding When to Speed Up
When asked about how often to speed up, the pro said, “If you can win every point by speeding it up, by all means go for it.”
The player explained that deciding when to speed up comes down to two key questions: “Did my opponent give me an easy enough dink to attack?” and “Can I gain an advantage in the point by speeding up?”
Sometimes, speeding up simply helps reach a neutral rally where a player’s quick hands can win points. Other times, patience is needed, as the pro shared, “I’ve also played matches where I’ve had to hit 50 dinks before an opportunity to speed up presented itself.”
Signs to Look For Before Attacking
The pro pointed out that, when hitting out of the air, players should find a ball high enough to hit down or drive straight through. Balance is important to make a strong and effective shot.
Balls lower than the net are risky. “You have to hit up on them and you need to generate topspin to keep the ball in the court and enough pace to prevent your opponent from getting an easy sitter,” the player said.
In professional games, players sometimes attack low balls aimed at the opponent’s chest. But the player warned that it’s risky for most players and suggested focusing on other attacking methods first.
When hitting off the bounce, players should find balls they can move into with their bodyweight and hit at the opponent’s waist. If an opponent looks hesitant or off-balance, even a slightly risky shot can be worth it.
The pro also added, “You need to vary the location of your speed-up shots to prevent your opponent from anticipating your attacks.”
How to Gain an Advantage
The player explained that gaining an advantage is simple. “If I can make them hit the ball up or catch them in a weird spot, I’ll speed up.”
Another sign is whether the player has been winning earlier fast exchanges, called hand battles. “If so, and I can initiate a firefight in neutral, I will speed up.”
If not winning those battles, more patience is needed.
The pro also shared another smart tactic: recalling past speed-ups to learn which side of the opponent is weaker. “If so, I’ll attack the opposite side,” the player said.
The Importance of Smart Speed-Ups
The player sees speeding up as one of the most creative parts of pickleball. “I love speeding up when I get the chance, and it’s important to adjust and be tactical about when you do it.”
The message was clear: when speeding up works, players should trust their game and keep doing it.
News in Brief: Pickleball Speed-Up Strategy
A pickleball pro shared tips on knowing when to speed up during matches. Players should attack only when they can gain an advantage and stay balanced. Varying shot locations and studying opponents’ weaknesses are key strategies. Speeding up, when done smartly, can turn matches and help players win more points.
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