Pickleball Erne Defense: Pro pickleball players on the PPA Tour have become better at defending Erne shots during the 2025 season. Stats from the first nine tournaments show players kept nearly half of Ernes in play, a rise from last year’s numbers. The data comes from all doubles championship matches.
Erne Defense in Men’s Doubles
Men’s doubles players hit 37 Ernes into the opponent’s court. Of these, 21 were “clean winners” or not returned, making up 57%. Meanwhile, 16 Ernes were successfully defended, continuing the rally at a rate of 43%.
Erne Defense in Women’s Doubles
In women’s doubles finals, 18 Ernes were hit. Half of them, 9 shots, ended as “clean winners” or were not returned (50%). The other half, 9 Ernes, were defended successfully and kept the rally alive.
Erne Defense in Mixed Doubles
Mixed doubles players attempted 55 Ernes in the finals. Of those, 29 were either “clean winners” or not returned (53%). The remaining 26 were defended well, continuing the rally at 47%.
Overall Doubles Performance
Across all doubles finals, players hit 110 Ernes into the opponent’s court.
Out of these, 59 were either “clean winners” or not returned, a success rate of 53.7%. The other 51 were defended successfully, with a 46.3% rate. This is an improvement compared to the 42% success rate seen through the first 13 tournaments of 2024.
More Defense, Longer Rallies
The rise in successful Erne defenses means rallies last longer in high-level matches. Players are reacting faster and making fewer errors when facing Ernes. This trend may lead to even more exciting and competitive games as the 2025 season continues. Fans can expect more thrilling points as pros sharpen their defensive skills.
News in Brief: Pickleball Erne Defense
Pro pickleball players on the PPA Tour are defending Erne shots better in 2025. New stats from the first nine tournaments show a 46.3% defense rate, up from 42% in 2024. Longer rallies and sharper defenses are making championship matches even more exciting for players and fans.
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