Understanding the 25/75 Rule in Pickleball

"Strategy is the key to achieving a winning edge." – Unknown

Pickleball may be a fast-paced game, but strategy plays a huge role in achieving success on the court. One such strategic concept that can dramatically improve your doubles play is the 25/75 rule. This rule focuses on positioning and shot placement, offering a methodical way to control the court and outmaneuver your opponents. In this blog, we’ll explore what the 25/75 rule is, how to apply it in your game, and why it’s a must-know strategy for competitive pickleball players.

What is the 25/75 Rule in Pickleball?

The 25/75 rule in pickleball refers to shot placement and positioning in doubles play, emphasizing that only about 25% of your shots should be directed toward your opponents at the net, while 75% of your shots should be aimed deeper in the court or toward the player further from the net. This approach focuses on hitting shots to the safer and more difficult-to-reach areas of the court rather than risking easier put-away volleys for your opponents who are positioned close to the net.

How Does the 25/75 Rule Work?

In doubles pickleball, two opponents typically position themselves with one player near the net and one player farther back, often at the baseline. The player at the net is in a prime position to attack, so targeting them directly increases the risk of a fast and aggressive return.

The 25/75 rule advises that:

• 25% of your shots should be directed at the opponent near the net. These shots should generally be softer dinks or angled shots designed to pull the net player out of position or force an error.
• 75% of your shots should target the player farther back or aim toward the middle or deeper areas of the court. These deeper shots reduce the chance of your opponents attacking with volleys and force them into more defensive positions, creating opportunities for you and your partner to take control of the point.

Why the 25/75 Rule is Effective

1. Reduces Risk of Attack
Aiming most of your shots toward the player farther back on the court or deeper into the court limits your opponents' chances of volleying at the net. This strategy minimizes high-risk situations where the net player could easily execute an offensive volley, reducing your chances of losing the point.

2. Forces Defensive Play
By focusing 75% of your shots away from the net, you put your opponents in more defensive positions. The back player is often less aggressive and more likely to return the ball with softer shots, which allows you to stay in control of the rally.

3. Creates Openings
While the 25/75 rule advises hitting the ball to deeper areas of the court most of the time, the 25% of shots directed at the net player can be strategic. These softer, angled dinks or precise lobs can draw the net player out of position or set up an opportunity for your team to finish the point with an attacking shot.

When to Apply the 25/75 Rule

The 25/75 rule is particularly effective in the following situations:

• At the Beginning of a Rally: When both teams are establishing their positions, the 25/75 rule helps you set the tone for the rally by controlling the pace and positioning.
• Against Aggressive Net Players: If your opponents are particularly aggressive at the net, this strategy minimizes their chances of hitting quick, attacking volleys.
• During Defensive Play: When you're defending against hard shots or in a tight spot, applying the 25/75 rule can help you stay in the rally longer and avoid giving your opponents easy shots to put away.

How to Practice the 25/75 Rule

• Drill with a Partner: Practice hitting 75% of your shots toward the baseline or middle of the court, alternating between forehand and backhand shots. Work on controlling depth and direction to target the back player.
• Dink Control: Practice the soft 25% shots aimed at the net player. Focus on dinking in a way that forces them out of position without giving them an easy opportunity to volley aggressively.
• Watch for Openings: As you practice, observe when targeting the deeper player creates an opening at the net, and be ready to capitalize with a well-placed attack.

Game Point

The 25/75 rule in pickleball offers a strategic advantage by keeping your opponents on the defensive and reducing their opportunities to dominate at the net. By controlling your shot placement and adhering to this simple principle, you can improve your overall consistency, win more points, and take command of the game. Whether you're a casual player or competing at a higher level, mastering the 25/75 rule is a game-changer for your doubles strategy.

See you on the courts!