Why People Don’t Like Pickleball

I recently came across a really entertaining thread on Reddit regarding a video clip of a professional pickleball rally. In two days, the clip had over 1.8k views and plenty of comments.

Of course, I bit, and right away, I started scrolling through the comments.

Some of the more amusing statements included a comparison to Wii tennis, others poking fun at the name (old news), and maybe my favorite: “Did someone just use the words ‘pickleball’ and ‘intense moment’ in the same sentence???”

In my experience working at a private racquet club, playing in U.S. tournaments at tennis clubs, and often having to share dual courts with tennis players, here’s why I think most folks don’t like the thought of pickleball.

The Tennis Bias: “It’s Just Not Tennis”

Stubborn tennis players are disinterested in pickleball because it appears to be less intense than tennis, less of a workout, and perhaps most importantly, there's a perception that it lacks the prestige of tennis.

This view seems pretty common, especially among long-time tennis enthusiasts who’ve spent decades perfecting their game.

Let’s face it: Tennis has a long history of being associated with professionalism, grand slam events, and, well, a certain level of exclusivity.

Pickleball is still seen by many as the newcomer, the “fun game for retirees” that doesn’t carry the same weight or recognition as tennis.

There’s no denying that pickleball, especially when compared to tennis, seems a little more laid-back. The court is smaller, the rallies are shorter, and the action often feels more controlled.

For tennis players accustomed to the intensity of a full-size court and longer points, the fast-paced but less physically demanding nature of pickleball can seem like a step down.

Plus, some still think of it as a sport that doesn’t quite measure up to the “seriousness” of tennis, which can turn people off.

However, here’s the thing: Pickleball isn’t trying to replace tennis. It’s a different game with different strengths, and for many, that’s a big part of the appeal.

As someone who loves both tennis and pickleball, I’ll tell you this: pickleball can definitely be just as intense, just as strategic, and just as physically demanding in its own way.

The shorter rallies demand quick reflexes, tactical shot placement, and excellent positioning.

Sure, the court is smaller, but that doesn’t mean the skill required is any less. The strategy can be intricate, and the stakes – especially in a tight match – can make your heart race.

Lack of Understanding: It’s More Than Just a “Retirement Game”

Another reason people don’t warm to pickleball is the misconception that it’s a sport for older adults who just want something easy to play.

There’s truth in the fact that pickleball has seen a large increase in popularity among retirees and recreational players, but that doesn’t mean it’s not competitive or demanding.

For those who haven’t played, it’s easy to assume that pickleball is just a game you can casually hit around.

What many don’t realize is how quickly you can find yourself in an intense, fast-paced rally, especially when you're playing against skilled opponents.

In fact, once you’re deep into a competitive game, the mental and physical demands start to rival many other sports.

Yes, the smaller court and slower ball speed might give the impression of an “easy game,” but in reality, the strategy and quick decision-making required to be successful make pickleball anything but a walk in the park.

The Unfamiliarity: People Are Just Used to What They Know

Let’s face it, humans are creatures of habit. Tennis players are used to their 78-foot court, their overhand serves, and their long, strategic points.

Pickleball throws all that out the window with a smaller court, underhanded serves, and a whole new set of rules. For many, the challenge isn’t just learning the sport – it’s overcoming the mental block of trying something new and unfamiliar.

Pickleball’s growth has been undeniable, and as its popularity continues to surge, more and more people are seeing the benefits.

But there’s still a lot of resistance to the idea of “switching up” from more established sports like tennis, especially for those who’ve invested so much time and energy in mastering their tennis game.

I get it. It can be hard to take pickleball seriously when it feels like it’s been pushed into the category of “something different” or “something fun.”

However, once you give it a real shot and begin to see the nuances in gameplay, the potential for improvement, and the sense of community, it’s hard not to be hooked. Pickleball has a way of drawing you in.

The Growing Popularity: Change is Coming

While it might not have the history or the prestige of tennis just yet, pickleball is evolving quickly.

The sport has already grown more rapidly than any other in recent years. It’s hitting younger generations, expanding at a global level, and more tournaments are popping up every day.

Pickleball’s inclusion in community centers, private clubs, and even as a growing college sport proves that it’s here to stay.

For those who may be dismissive now, the time will come when they have to share the court with a pickleball player or two.

As more people discover the thrill and intensity that pickleball brings to the table, it’ll be harder to deny its value. And when it’s your turn to be on the court, you might just find that pickleball has a lot to offer – even if it’s a different type of intensity.

The Key to Embracing Pickleball: No Need to Preach, Just Play

I’m a huge advocate for pickleball, but what I do my best to avoid is preaching about the game. It’s not about convincing people that it’s better than tennis or any other sport.

Pickleball has so much going for it that I trust the sport will sell itself over and over again. The community is welcoming, the matches are fast and fun, and anyone who tries it will inevitably discover just how enjoyable it can be.

No one had to “sell” the benefits of the game to me. It was one of those moments where I just understood right away how much potential there was in pickleball.

Whether you’re looking for a fun, social experience or seeking serious competition, pickleball offers something for everyone.

So, yeah, someone did say “intense pickleball moments,” and yes, those moments are very real! Pickleball can be just as thrilling, competitive, and dynamic as any sport out there.

In the end, everyone’s entitled to their own opinion, but let’s not write off a game just because it’s new, or because it’s different.

Pickleball is evolving, and as more people try it, they’ll realize that it’s not just a “game for retirees” or “a tennis-lite version.” It’s a sport in its own right, and it’s here to stay.

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