Aggressive Right-Side Pickleball Strategy: In a recent YouTube video, Zane Navratil shared insights into the rising trend of aggressive right-side play in pickleball. He demonstrated how players like Gabe Tardio and Christian Alshon are leading the charge by dictating play from the right side. Navratil explained the evolution of this strategy and offered tips for players wanting to implement it in their game.
The Evolution of Right-Side Play
Navratil, a professional pickleball player, gave a historical overview of the sport. He started playing pickleball in 2013 and went pro in 2020. According to Navratil, the right-side player was traditionally seen as the setup player who mainly set up the left-side player for attacks.
However, this changed in 2023 when Matt Wright and Riley Newman began playing more aggressively on the right side. They used a high-risk, high-reward strategy that challenged the dominance of Ben Johns and Collin Johns.
Matt Wright’s aggressive play in the middle was particularly influential, and it allowed him to speed up the game when his forehand was positioned on the wing. This strategy led to more success against top players and set the stage for others to follow suit.
Key Tactics for Aggressive Right-Side Play
Navratil shared several tactical approaches for aggressive right-side play. The most important aspect is positioning. Aggressive right-side players take the ball out of the air in the middle rather than letting their left-side partner take it after it bounces.
In crosscourt rallies, players can pinch the middle. Once the ball is in the air, several aggressive options are available, such as executing a crosscourt roll or speeding up the ball across the opponent’s body. Navratil also pointed out that attacking from the middle requires precise footwork and an ability to react quickly to various ball placements.
When the ball is wide, right-side players can speed it up down the sideline or aim for a “chicken wing” spot. This gives the player control and reduces the areas they need to cover, with the partner taking care of the middle.
Advanced Tactics and Equipment
Navratil also emphasized the importance of equipment in supporting aggressive play. Players looking to increase their spin and power should choose a paddle that complements these traits. He encouraged his followers to visit his website for discounts on high-quality paddles.
Despite the benefits of aggressive right-side play, Navratil warned that certain shots, like the backhand flick from the middle, can be more difficult. This is because the forehand side becomes exposed after executing the shot.
The Shift in the Meta of Pickleball
Navratil concluded by stating that the role of the right-side player has drastically changed. These new aggressive tactics require a deep understanding of positioning, timing, and strategy. According to Navratil, players looking to succeed in 2025 should adopt these advanced techniques to stay competitive in the evolving pickleball meta.
News in Brief: Aggressive Right-Side Pickleball Strategy
Zane Navratil shared insights into aggressive right-side play in pickleball, highlighting how players like Gabe Tardio and Christian Alshon have changed the game. He demonstrated techniques such as crosscourt rolls and middle speed-ups and explained the importance of positioning and equipment in executing these advanced strategies.
ALSO READ: Master the Art of Dinking: Zane Navratil Reveals Winning Pickleball Strategies