Does your partner always seem to play worse when you’re on the court together?
You’re not alone. This post is for players who are genuinely trying to win but may be accidentally bringing down their teammate’s level of play.
The truth is, many common habits in pickleball—though well-intentioned—end up hurting your partner more than helping them. Let’s break down six behaviors that can tank your team chemistry and what to do instead.
I’ve been playing and coaching Pickleball since 2018 and here’s some of the most common things players do to make their partner play much worse.
1. Crowding Your Partner’s Forehand
This one is especially common when two right-handed players (or two left-handed players) are on the same team.
Many players hate using their backhand. So when the ball comes down the middle—technically your partner’s forehand—some players cheat over, trying to take it with their stronger shot.
But here’s the problem: you’re stepping into your partner’s space. This not only throws off their rhythm but also makes them hesitate next time the ball comes their way. Instead of gaining a strategic advantage, you’re creating confusion and stress.
What to do instead: Trust your partner to take their forehand. Establish a clear plan about who takes middle balls, and practice your backhand outside of the game so you stop subconsciously invading your partners strengths.
2. Saying “Don’t Hit It to That Opponent!”
On paper, this seems like solid advice. “Don’t hit it to the stronger player.” But in practice, this is a confidence killer that also cuts your partners options in half.
When you tell your partner they must avoid a certain opponent, it often backfires. They start overthinking every shot, hitting too softly or making risky decisions just to avoid that player.
A better approach: Try saying, “Let’s keep it away from X player when possible.” This gives your partner tactical guidance without demanding perfection or putting extra pressure on every swing.
(Additional Read: Great Socks for Pickleball along with Durable Pickleball Shoes)
3. Showing Negative Body Language
Eye rolls. Sighs. Standing at the baseline like you’d rather be anywhere else.
These non-verbal cues have a huge impact on your partner’s performance. Even if you’re not saying anything critical out loud, your body language can communicate disappointment, frustration, or disinterest—and that kills morale.
Try this instead: Stay engaged, even during tough games. Make eye contact, give a fist bump after good rallies, and be the kind of partner you’d want to play with.
4. Attacking When You’re Out of Position
Yes, offense is fun. But if you’re attacking from a bad spot—low balls, off-balance, or can’t help defend the second ball—you’re setting your team up for failure.
Why? Because your partner is now stuck defending against a hard counterattack while you’re still recovering. Now they’re in a 2-on-1 situation with little time to react.
Smart play tip: Know when to reset. Choosing a softer, more strategic shot instead of forcing an attack can give your team time to regroup—and make your partner’s next shot way easier.
(Additional Read: Inspiring Quotes to Play Better)
5. Overloading Your Partner With Strategy Talk
It’s great to care about strategy. But too much mid-game coaching can overwhelm your partner and hurt their performance (and some players don’t want coaching at all while playing).
If you’re constantly pointing out what they should’ve done—especially right after a point ends—it can make them feel micromanaged or like they’re doing everything wrong. Even if your advice is technically sound, it’s rarely helpful if it comes too often or at the wrong time.
What to do instead:
Keep tips minimal during games. Focus on one or two key adjustments and trust your partner to figure things out. And when you do offer feedback, make sure it’s supportive and timely—like pointing out, “Backhands are middle here.” That’s helpful without being nitpicky.
Remember, constant corrections don’t build chemistry—confidence and clarity do.
Final Thoughts: Support Makes Teammates Better
If you want to win more in Pickleball, your best asset is a confident and comfortable partner. Most of the time, your teammate isn’t playing worse because they forgot how to hit—it’s because they feel pressured, crowded, or criticized.
Be the kind of partner that makes people play better just by standing next to them.
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