Some players reach a 4.0 rating in just six months, while others take two or three years. Why is it easier for some and harder for others? The journey to higher skill levels in pickleball is a mix of talent, dedication, practice, and sometimes luck.
No matter how long it takes, reaching 4.0 is a big deal. It marks the shift from casual fun to serious competition. But if you’re aiming for 5.0, the challenge becomes even greater.
Let’s explore what makes some players rise quickly and why everyone’s journey is unique.
Getting to 4.0: The Early Days
Reaching a 4.0 rating in pickleball often involves a mix of dedication, practice, and some innate talent. For many players, it’s not just about how long you play but how effectively you practice. Based on the experiences shared in the community, getting to 4.0 can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years, depending largely on your background, frequency of play, and how you approach your game.
For players without any racquet experience, the journey can take about one to two years of consistent play. People who come from other athletic backgrounds—whether that’s football, ping pong, or tennis—often find themselves progressing a bit faster, thanks to their existing hand-eye coordination and agility.
One player noted it took him around nine months of playing twice a week to reach 4.0, which included some occasional drilling. He highlighted that playing against stronger competition, rather than simply logging hours, made a huge difference.
The Leap to 5.0: A Whole New Ball Game
Now, let’s talk about getting to that elusive 5.0 rating. From the community conversations, it’s clear that this jump is a lot harder, and not just because of the skills required—it’s also about finding the right environment to progress. The consensus is that while many people can reach 4.0, making it to 5.0 is an entirely different story. It’s not just about time on the court; it’s about the dedication you put into drilling, playing with better opponents, and getting out of your comfort zone.
One former college tennis player mentioned that, even for him, getting to 5.0 required a lot of adaptation, like changing his grip and adjusting his play style. Even players who do everything right—playing tournaments, getting lessons, and drilling regularly—find that there’s a point where talent and athleticism play a significant role in advancing further.
A recurring theme from the comments is that most players who want to reach 5.0 need to drill extensively—often more than they play casual games. A lot of people at 4.0 never get to 5.0 simply because they don’t drill or put in the focused practice needed to iron out their weaknesses. The truth is, it’s not easy.
The majority of 4.0 players never make it to 5.0. In fact, some estimate that as many as 80% of 4.0 players will stay there, partly because they don’t have access to the level of competition that pushes them further.
The Role of Community and Competition
One of the biggest challenges for those aspiring to 5.0 is finding suitable practice partners. At the 4.0 level, it’s relatively easy to find games at your local courts or clubs. But as you progress, those opportunities become fewer, and many higher-level games are invite-only. Breaking into these groups can be a challenge, and sometimes the social dynamics are as tough to navigate as the actual games.
One player commented that the high-level community can be quite exclusive, with most 5.0 games being “invite-only.” The groups tend to be tight-knit, and getting an invite often means you need to know someone or prove yourself in smaller, more casual games. For a lot of players, the difficulty of accessing good competition can be a real obstacle, and it sometimes makes the journey feel less rewarding.
Another perspective that comes up is the idea that chasing a 5.0 rating isn’t for everyone. Some players find that reaching 4.0 or 4.5 is fulfilling enough. After all, the social aspect of pickleball is one of its greatest strengths, and some people find that going too far beyond their friend group reduces their enjoyment of the game. The higher you climb, the harder it is to find balanced, competitive matches without a lot of effort and scheduling.
Is It Worth It?
This brings us to a fundamental question: Why are you playing pickleball? If you’re in it for the fun, the exercise, and the social connections, pushing yourself to 5.0 might not be necessary. Some players intentionally choose to stay at a certain level because they value the friendships and balance of competition they have at 3.5 or 4.0. As one person put it, “The fun tends to taper off once you hit around a 4.7 skill level or higher.”
However, if you’re the type of person who loves setting goals, enjoys pushing your limits, and is ready to put in the work, the journey to 5.0 can be incredibly rewarding. It’s just important to be realistic about what it takes—lots of drilling, playing up in tournaments, seeking out better players, and sometimes just plain grit.
Tips for the Journey
Here are some key takeaways from the players who have been through it:
- Drill, Drill, Drill: Casual play won’t cut it if you’re aiming for 5.0. Drilling and focused practice are key.
- Play Up in Tournaments: Even if you feel outmatched, playing against better competition is crucial. You’ll learn faster, even if it means getting humbled.
- Get Lessons: A coach or a skilled player can point out flaws in your game that you might not notice yourself.
- Build Your Network: Find and play with higher-level players whenever possible. The right playing partners can make all the difference.
The journey to 4.0 and 5.0 is unique for everyone, shaped by natural ability, dedication, and the people you meet along the way. Whether you’re just playing for fun or you’re aiming for the top, remember to enjoy the process.
Pickleball, after all, is about community, competition, and the love of the game. 🏓
