Doubles vs Singles Strategy: How to Switch Your Game When Playing With a Partner

Pickleball is unique in that it can be played as singles or doubles, offering two very different styles of competition. While the rules remain the same, the strategies shift dramatically depending on whether you’re covering the court alone or sharing it with a partner. Many players excel at one format but struggle to adapt to the other. Learning how to switch gears between singles and doubles will not only make you a stronger all-around competitor but also give you a deeper appreciation for the game’s versatility.

The Singles Game: A Test of Stamina and Precision

Singles pickleball is often described as the “track and field” version of the sport. You’re responsible for the entire court, demanding both physical endurance and mental toughness.

Key Strategies in Singles:

1. Control the Serve and Return
   A strong, deep serve puts pressure on your opponent, while a deep return keeps you in the rally. Without a partner to cover mistakes, consistency is crucial.
2. Use Angles and Depth
   Singles is about moving your opponent side to side and back and forth. Sharp cross-court shots and deep drives can wear them down over time.
3. Approach the Kitchen Wisely
   Rushing the net without preparation leaves you vulnerable. Instead, build your way forward with controlled shots, then dominate at the kitchen line when the opportunity arises.
4. Conditioning is Key
   Unlike doubles, you’ll cover every inch of the court. Footwork, agility, and endurance often determine the winner.

The Doubles Game: A Battle of Positioning and Teamwork

Doubles pickleball, on the other hand, is all about coordination, communication, and strategy. Instead of relying solely on athleticism, doubles rewards tactical positioning and partnership synergy.

Key Strategies in Doubles:

1. Dominate the Kitchen Line
   Doubles is often won or lost at the non-volley zone. Teams that control the kitchen can dictate pace, angles, and pressure.
2. Third Shot Drop
   After the serve and return, the third shot drop is essential for transitioning to the net. A well-executed drop neutralizes opponents’ advantage and sets you up to attack.
3. Communicate Constantly
   “Yours,” “Mine,” and “Switch” aren’t just suggestions—they’re essential. Miscommunication leads to missed opportunities and easy points for your opponents.
4. Work as a Wall
   Teams that move together side to side minimize gaps and force opponents into risky shots. Staying aligned is just as important as hitting winners.

Switching Between Singles and Doubles

Transitioning between singles and doubles requires a mental reset. Here are the biggest adjustments:

1. Court Coverage
   • Singles: Think stamina and speed—you cover it all.
   • Doubles: Think positioning and teamwork—you cover half the court, but smarter.
2. Shot Selection
   • Singles: Favor deep, powerful shots to push your opponent around.
   • Doubles: Use controlled drops, dinks, and lobs to create openings.
3. Mindset
   • Singles: It’s about grit, endurance, and outlasting your opponent.
   • Doubles: It’s about patience, setup, and partnership.
4. Communication
   • Singles: None needed—it’s all on you.
   • Doubles: Verbal and non-verbal communication is half the game.

Training Tips for Both Formats

• For Singles: Incorporate cardio, sprint drills, and agility ladders into your training. Practice long rallies to build endurance.
• For Doubles: Drill third shot drops, practice dinking at the kitchen, and run partner positioning exercises. Spend time working specifically with your doubles partner to develop chemistry.
• For Both: Strengthen fundamentals—serve, return, footwork—since they carry over across formats.

Singles and doubles pickleball may share the same rules, but they’re two very different games. Singles demands physical endurance and shot precision, while doubles rewards strategy, positioning, and teamwork. Mastering both formats makes you a more adaptable player and ensures you’re ready for any competition.

So the next time you step onto the court, whether it’s solo or with a partner, remember to switch not just your strategy—but also your mindset. That flexibility is what turns a good player into a great one.