Hate is quite a strong word, don’t you think so? Perhaps, you enjoy playing one sport over another. Sometimes, you even argue with your friends that this sport is more challenging or interesting than the others. Maybe your arguments will reach the point that they can get heated; however, did you ever use the word “hate”? When it comes to pickleball, things can get a bit intense. Most people are talking about “why do tennis players hate pickleball?”
Due to the increasing popularity of pickleball and the limited number of pickleball courts, players have decided to convert tennis courts into pickleball courts. But in doing so, tennis courts should be marked properly so they can be accurately used for pickleball games. The problem is tennis players hate these markings since they are too confusing.
Some people are also complaining about the pickleball noise. Below, you will find the other reasons why tennis players hate pickleball. Maybe you already know some of them, but others might surprise you.
How is Pickleball Different Than Tennis?
Over the last few years, there is no denying that pickleball has become more and more popular. Aside from being a fun recreational game, it is also considered a social sport that can be played by people of all ages and with varying skills. But don’t forget that it can also be quite competitive. Pickleball rules are taken from different racquet sports; however, it also has their own.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a sport that can be described as a combination of badminton, table tennis, and tennis. The net and court that are used for the game have a similarity to the ones that are used in tennis. Pickleball is sometimes played on tennis courts. The game’s rules are a combination of various rules from different racquet sports. Although pickleball can be played as singles or doubles, most people prefer to play it as doubles.
What Equipment is Used?
Pickleball uses a paddle instead of a string racquet that is used for playing tennis and other sports. While tennis racquets come in different sizes and string types, pickleball paddles also differ in thickness and size, depending on how you play the game. Tennis uses felt-covered balls, while plastic balls with holes are used for playing pickleball. Also referred to as a Wiffle ball, these balls are lighter.
The nets that are used in pickleball are much shorter than the ones that are used in tennis. The pickleball net should have a height of 34 inches in the center and 36 inches on both sides, while the tennis net should have a height of 3 feet and 6 inches. Tennis nets are also wider than pickleball nets since tennis courts are wider.
How Do the Rules in Pickleball Differ From Tennis?
Although the rules are more or less the same as in tennis, there are some significant differences. One of the major differences is the measurement of the court. Typically, a regulation pickleball court measures 44 x 20 feet, while a tennis court for doubles measures 78 x 36 feet.
When serving, the pickleball ball must travel across the court, similar to tennis. Nevertheless, in pickleball, the player should serve underhand. Scoring also varies in pickleball. There is no such thing as a game-set structure. The one who wins the game is the first team that reaches 11 points; however, they should win by 2 points. The game will continue beyond 11 points until such time that a team wins by 2. Contrary to badminton or tennis, you can only get a score when your team is serving.
Another major challenge new players are struggling with is that the ball should be allowed to bounce once on each side before you can start volleying.
Is Tennis More Difficult Than Pickleball?
If you are interested in playing tennis but feel that other sports are a lot easier for your body, you might become addicted to a sport such as pickleball. One of the main reasons people are easily attracted to pickleball is that it is much easier than tennis. But is this true? Is pickleball actually much easier than tennis?
Since both of these sports are different, regardless of their similarities, there are several aspects to consider when deciding which sport is easier.
Power – Some people have a misconception that pickleball involves more power hitting. Even though power-hitting can help, the key in playing pickleball remains to be shot placement instead of how powerful you hit the shot.
Movement – When it comes to movement, you could say that pickleball is much easier since less movement is required. However, both agility and promptness are required whether you are playing pickleball or tennis.
Do Tennis Skills Translate to Pickleball?
Typically, tennis is best played by more stationary people. When it comes to pickleball, this sport requires more movement around the court, which is in contrast to tennis. If you are beginning to learn pickleball, it might take time to develop these skills. To help you in developing your skills, you could play with others. This can also help improve your communication, teamwork, and even your individual game; hence, pickleball can be considered an excellent social activity.
Are Tennis Players Excellent At Playing Pickleball?
Generally, tennis players are great at playing stationary sports such as tennis; however, pickleball involves more movement than traditional tennis. It might take time to develop your skills if you are starting to learn pickleball and don’t play a lot with others. That is why you must play with others to speed up this process. Remember that the key in pickleball is movement. Therefore, the more you stay still, the easier your opponent can beat you. Although pickleball is quite new, there is always room for improvement, so don’t lose hope give it a try.
Furthermore, tennis players have outstanding hand-eye coordination when playing stationary games like pickleball. It is a fact that playing tennis can greatly help in improving your pickleball skills since both sports have a resemblance when it comes to movement and strategy. If you are still a beginner, you can play with a group of more experienced players to get some pointers from them. Even if you feel like you are not getting better, keep on practicing, and you will find that your skills will eventually develop. When playing this game, you must always keep yourself hydrated. Keep in mind that extreme dehydration can result in fatigue and cramps.
Compared to traditional tennis, pickleball involves more movement around the court. The popularity of this sport is rapidly increasing since it is fun and has a low impact. It’s an excellent way of getting some exercise while bonding with your family and friends. Pickleball requires no special equipment since you only need a paddle and a ball.
If you are a beginner in pickleball, then it will take some time before you can develop your skills. However, if you are a tennis player, you can most likely play better at pickleball since you are getting used to ball handling and the court surface, which are essential for both sports. Most probably, it can take some time before newbies can develop the same abilities as tennis players; however, pickleball is worth it when it comes to fun and fitness.
If you are looking for a new sport to play, then why don’t you give pickleball a try? You will be amazed how much you will enjoy it. Just be patient, and don’t get dismayed if your skills are not yet superior. If you keep practicing, you can become an expert in this interesting game. Remember that there is no perfect way of playing pickleball; look for the best one that works for you and stay with it.
What Do Tennis Players Think of Pickleball?
Why do tennis players hate pickleball? For a long time, most tennis players have thought that pickleball is unworthy. One of the most common complaints from tennis players is that pickleball can ruin their highly respected tennis game. However, let’s try to ignore this myth and focus more on the important pickleball skills that can improve your tennis game.
By playing pickleball, tennis players can become great ball watchers. Most often, tennis players have poor abilities as ball watchers since the speed and journey of the ball seem predictable. Due to the nature of a pickleball ball, the ball must be watched closely until it reaches the point of contact, specifically when you are playing pickleball outdoors.
As a tennis player, you can improve your reflexes when volleying. Compared to double tennis, playing doubles pickleball occurs in front of the court, so transitioning is an important skill.
Conclusion
Why do tennis players hate pickleball? Some people believe tennis players do not enjoy pickleball since it is a slower-paced game and they are not as challenging as tennis. However, others think that tennis players actually enjoy playing this sport because it challenges them in various ways and provides them with a new perspective.
