How to Be an Enjoyable Pickleball Partner (And Not Get Ghosted on the Court)

So, you’ve found a great doubles partner, and it feels like the stars have aligned for your pickleball journey. Maybe you’ve played a few solid games together, won some impressive points, and—dare we say it—actually developed a genuine sense of chemistry on the court. There's a certain rhythm to your play, a synchronization that makes every match enjoyable. But now, just when you thought you had a reliable partner, you notice they’re suddenly “busy” whenever you suggest teaming up again. They seem to be playing with someone else, leaving you feeling abandoned and confused.

You’ve been pickleball ghosted.

It’s a frustrating experience that can leave you questioning your skills, your approach, and even your social standing within the pickleball community.

Want to make sure this unfortunate scenario doesn’t happen to you? To safeguard your pickleball partnerships and ensure that you remain a desirable teammate, follow these golden rules of pickleball partnership etiquette. These guidelines will help you navigate the often tricky waters of doubles play and keep your partnerships thriving.

🎾 1. Don’t Be a One-Person Show

• We get it, you’ve got a killer forehand that can send the ball soaring over the net with incredible speed and precision. However, hogging the ball and running across the court to take every shot will leave your partner questioning their existence and feeling sidelined. It’s not just about individual talent; pickleball is a team sport that thrives on collaboration and shared effort.

• Instead, practice court awareness—this means being mindful of your partner’s position and allowing them the opportunity to hit the ball too. Trust your partner to make plays and let them contribute to the game. (Seriously, let them play too!) This not only enhances your teamwork but also builds camaraderie and mutual respect on the court.

🗣️ 2. Communication is Key

• Nothing tanks a partnership faster than two players standing still, staring at a ball, and simultaneously yelling, “YOURS!” in a moment of confusion. This lack of communication can lead to missed opportunities and unnecessary errors that dampen the spirit of the game.

• Use simple calls to clarify your intentions: “Mine!” “Yours!” “Switch!” These straightforward phrases can help prevent misunderstandings. (Optional: Add a “Sorry!” after every missed shot, even if it wasn’t your fault; a little humility goes a long way in maintaining a positive atmosphere.)

🔥 3. Be the Energy You Want to Receive

• Nobody wants a partner who sulks after every mistake or celebrates only their own wins while ignoring their teammate’s efforts. Be positive and encouraging—even if your partner just lobbed the ball into the next ZIP code, a supportive attitude can uplift their spirits and keep the game fun. Remember, it’s not just about winning; it’s about enjoying the process and creating memorable moments together.

🤝 4. Post-Game Etiquette: The Social Contract

• Win or lose, always end the game with a paddle tap and a smile. This simple gesture signifies sportsmanship and respect for your partner, regardless of the outcome.

• Never say: “We lost because of that one shot you missed.” Instead, go with something more uplifting like: “That was fun! Let’s do it again.” This approach fosters a positive environment and encourages your partner to want to play with you again in the future.

Want to be a sought-after partner? Be supportive, fun, and just competitive enough to keep it interesting—without acting like it’s the gold medal match at the U.S. Open. By embodying these principles of partnership etiquette, you’ll not only enhance your own game but also become a player that others eagerly want to team up with, ensuring that you’ll never experience the sting of being ghosted on the pickleball court again.