Pickleball isn’t just about volleys and dinks—it’s also about having fun and connecting with others on the court. But sometimes, what comes out of our mouths can take the game from enjoyable to awkward faster than a missed serve.
From cringe-worthy complaints to unintentional insults, here are the 20 worst things you should never say during a pickleball match. Trust me, avoiding these will make the game better for everyone—your partner included! Let’s dive in.
1. “What’s wrong with you? That ball was clearly out!”
Starting an argument over a line call isn’t just bad sportsmanship—it’s a surefire way to kill the fun.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: Nobody enjoys a pickleball referee wannabe. Keep your cool and move on.
2. “Sorry…Not Sorry!”
You’ve just won a point thanks to a dribbler that barely made it over the net. Etiquette says you should raise your hand and say, “Sorry.” But deep down, you’re not sorry at all. In fact, you’re smirking on the inside.
Why It’s Annoying: Your opponents know you’re not sorry. Just own it and celebrate!
3. “You’re playing way out of your league.”
Telling someone they don’t belong in a game is unnecessarily harsh and discouraging.
What to Say Instead: “Let’s make this a great game for everyone!” or offer constructive tips if appropriate.
4. “We’re losing because of you.”
Blaming your partner for a loss isn’t just mean—it’s counterproductive.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: Success on the court comes from teamwork, not pointing fingers.
5. “Yours!” (Said a Second Too Late)
Few things are as frustrating as your partner yelling “Yours!” after the ball has already bounced between you. Was it helpful? Nope. Was it necessary? Also no.
Why It’s Relatable: We’ve all been there. Communication is key—but so is timing.
6. “I thought you had that.”
Translation: “It’s your fault we lost the point.”
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: This comment undermines your partner’s confidence. Just move on and focus on the next rally.
7. Calling an Obvious Shot “Out” (As a Joke)
When a ball lands squarely inside the baseline and someone yells, “Out!” with a smirk, you know they’re just messing with you. It’s all fun and games until someone takes it seriously.
Why It’s Risky: Pickleball relies on trust, and joking about calls can test your opponents’ patience.
8. “Can we play that again?”
Unless there’s a legitimate reason, like a ball rolling onto your court, asking for a do-over just because you didn’t like the outcome is a no-go.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: Respect the rules and the rally outcome. No one likes a sore loser.
9. “Timeout, I’ve Got a Zoom Call.”
In today’s world, people are glued to their phones—even on the court. But nothing kills the vibe like pausing a game so someone can take a non-urgent call.
Why It’s Cringeworthy: Pickleball is the perfect escape from life’s chaos. Leave the Zoom calls off the court!
10. “I don’t go to the net—it’s not my thing.”
Staying at the baseline in pickleball is like skipping the frosting on a cake—you’re missing the best part.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: The kitchen line is where the magic happens. Embrace it.
11. “Let’s Play to the Old Lady’s Weak Knee.”
If you’re in rec play and hear someone suggest targeting a player with a visible injury, it’s time to take a step back. Winning isn’t worth sacrificing good sportsmanship.
Why It’s a Faux Pas: It’s a recreational game, not a gladiator match. Play fair, have fun, and remember—it’s just pickleball.
12. “I could have hit that better.”
Critiquing your partner mid-game doesn’t help—it only adds tension.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: Encouragement is more effective than criticism. Stick with positive vibes.
13. “Nice Shot” (Said Sarcastically)
A ball hits the tape, rolls over, and barely lands in. You say, “Nice shot!” with just enough sarcasm to get your point across.
Why It’s Passive-Aggressive: Sure, it’s funny—but it might not go over well with everyone. Use this one sparingly!
14. “You need to stay on your side of the court.”
Treating the centerline like a fence limits your teamwork and kills your chances of winning.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: Pickleball is about working together, not dividing the court.
15. “This paddle is trash—I can’t play with it.”
Blaming your equipment for every mistake gets old fast.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: It’s not the paddle—it’s how you’re playing. Take responsibility and adapt.
16. “I’d be better if my partner kept up.”
Another way of saying, “It’s not me, it’s you.”
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: Teamwork is about lifting each other up, not dragging each other down.
17. “It’s just pickleball—who cares?”
Sure, it’s not Wimbledon, but dismissing the effort everyone is putting into the game is disrespectful.
What to Say Instead: “Great rally! Let’s keep it going!” or “We’re here to have fun—let’s enjoy it!” These comments keep the energy positive and show you value the game and the players.
18. “Can you not hit it so hard?”
Asking your opponent to tone down their game because it’s challenging you isn’t exactly sporting.
Why You Shouldn’t Say It: It’s part of the game to adapt to different styles of play.
19. “Well, that was lucky.”
Dismissing someone’s shot as luck downplays their skill, even if you truly believe it was accidental.
What to Say Instead: “Great shot!” or laugh it off with, “I’ll take one of those, too!”
20. “Do you even know the rules?”
Questioning someone’s understanding of the game can come off as rude and dismissive.
What to Say Instead: “Let’s check the rulebook!” or “We can clarify it after the game.”
Keep the Fun, Lose the Drama
Pickleball is a game built on community, sportsmanship, and having a great time. The words we use on the court can lift each other up—or bring the mood down faster than a missed dink. By avoiding these comments and focusing on positive, constructive communication, we can keep the game fun, friendly, and welcoming for everyone.
So next time you’re on the court, remember: it’s not just about the shots you take, but also the words you choose. Play hard, be kind, and pickle on!
