4 Game-Changing Strategies for Aggressive Play in Pickleball Doubles

Aggression in pickleball doubles isn’t just about hitting harder; it’s about controlling the game, applying constant pressure, and seizing opportunities. When done right, an aggressive playstyle can overwhelm your opponents and keep them on their heels. Here are four strategies to help you step up your aggressiveness in doubles and dramatically increase your effectiveness on the court.

1. Attack the Middle

The middle is a prime target in doubles play. Hitting to the middle creates confusion and can throw your opponents off balance, as both players may hesitate or try to go for the same ball. This strategy forces your opponents to communicate and make quick decisions, which often leads to errors or weaker returns.

Pro Tip: Aim for low, hard shots right down the middle, especially when you're moving up to the kitchen. This keeps your opponents on their toes and disrupts their rhythm.

2. Get Comfortable Taking Balls in the Air

Aggressive play in pickleball means avoiding the bounce whenever possible. Taking the ball in the air, whether it’s a volley at the net or intercepting a mid-court shot, gives you the advantage of time. This keeps the pressure on your opponents by minimizing their recovery time and maintaining the pace.

Pro Tip: Practice closing the gap between you and the net, and work on your reflex volleys to become comfortable with quick reactions. This is especially effective during transition play, where most players struggle.

3. Use an Aggressive Serve and Deep Return

An aggressive serve doesn’t necessarily mean a power serve, but one that’s well-placed and forces your opponents back or to one side. Likewise, a deep, well-placed return keeps your opponents away from the net, allowing you to control the game by reaching the net first. This positioning gives you the upper hand in dictating play and setting up for offensive shots.

Pro Tip: Mix up your serves and returns to keep your opponents guessing. Try aiming for the opponent’s weaker side, or hit a short, angled return to force them off their preferred position.

4. Step into the Kitchen with Purpose

When you’re at the kitchen line, assertiveness is key. Rather than settling for safe dinks, look for opportunities to speed up the ball when your opponents leave themselves vulnerable. Aggressive dinks that push your opponents out of position or force pop-ups can give you an opening to put the ball away.

Pro Tip: Use a combination of soft dinks and aggressive dinks to mix up your shots. Watch for your opponent’s paddle position and body language—any hesitation is a signal to speed up the game.

By focusing on attacking the middle, taking more balls in the air, using an aggressive serve and return, and playing with purpose at the kitchen line, you’ll dramatically increase your effectiveness in doubles through aggressive play. These strategies keep the momentum in your favor, putting your opponents on constant defense and allowing you to dictate the flow of the game. Embrace these tactics, and you’ll become a force to be reckoned with on the court!