Ever Wonder What’s Going On in a 6.0 Player’s Mind During Doubles?

At the 6.0 level, pickleball is as much a mental game as it is physical. Here’s a peek into what top players are thinking as they navigate a doubles match:

1. Court Positioning and Anticipation

   A 6.0 player is always focused on positioning—both theirs and their opponents'. They’re anticipating where the ball is going next and moving accordingly to control the court.

   
   

2. Shot Selection

   Every shot is intentional. They’re constantly calculating whether to use a soft drop shot, a deep drive, or speed up the ball based on the opponents’ weaknesses and positioning.

   
   

3. Partner Communication

   Top-level players keep an ongoing mental dialogue with their partner, whether through verbal communication or court awareness. They’re always in sync.

   
   

4. Exploiting Opponent Weaknesses

   A 6.0 player is observing every detail—opponents’ footwork, reaction time, and shot consistency—to exploit any weaknesses in their game.

   
   

5. Staying Calm Under Pressure

   Mental toughness is key. Even in high-pressure moments, a 6.0 player remains calm, relying on their experience and strategy to outlast their opponents.

   
   

By focusing on these advanced tactics and mental strategies, 6.0 players are always a step ahead, dictating the flow of the game.