Many of us like to believe we can match the skill of the pros, but in reality, amateur players often make a range of small, avoidable mistakes. While it’s easy to get caught up in advanced strategies, improving your game often comes down to mastering the fundamentals and making minor adjustments that add up over time.

Top professionals frequently point out these common missteps they see among recreational players. For World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, her first piece of advice actually begins off the court.

“I really recommend going to the gym more than you think you need to. Work on strength training, reaction work, and endurance,” advised Waters. “Those things will really help level up your game without actually stepping on the court.”

On the court, Waters emphasizes the importance of minimizing unforced errors.

“I see a lot of unforced errors, especially with the first and third shots. They’re making more errors than they should have,” she said. “So focus a little bit more on the serve, return, and third shot drop or drive, and that will help any amateur level up.”

Callie Smith often notices this same mistake among amateur players.

“One of the biggest mistakes I see is that once someone hits a shot, they like to watch their ball instead of recovering back into a ready position and being ready for the next ball coming back,” she mentioned. “For example, if someone hits a backhand, then they’ll stay there with their paddle on their backhand side, rather than getting back into a neutral position or back into a ready position. Oftentimes, they’ll get stuck, and if it comes to the opposite side of their body then they’re being chicken-winged rather than being ready.”

Mary Brascia encourages players to focus on patience above all else.

“One of the biggest differences between amateurs and the pro level is decision-making. Sometimes, people get a little carried away with their speed-ups, but they need to be a little more patient,” she emphasized. “You get better at that by consistently drilling your dinks and drops, and just practicing being patient in points.”

Etta Tuionetoa pointed out a similar issue among amateur players.

“Rushing is a big one I see with amateurs,” she explained. “They rush to get from the baseline up to the kitchen. I don’t think you have to rush. Slow down and take your time.”

Augie Ge echoed that sentiment.

“It’s a cliché, but you have to take your time through the transition zone to get to the kitchen,” he emphasized. “People want to race to get up to the line, but you don’t have to.”

Ge also stressed the importance of keeping enjoyment at the heart of the game.

“Honestly, it’s all about having fun out there. I feel like a lot of amateurs get caught up in trying to manipulate their DUPR or just get too caught up in results or trying to get to the next level,” he said. “They forget this is supposed to be fun. It’s about having a good time out there. We’re all so lucky to play pickleball at all, so keep it fun.”

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