As pickleball’s popularity skyrockets, a growing number of tennis players, from amateurs to seasoned professionals, are venturing into this rapidly expanding sport. Despite their prowess on the tennis court, transitioning to pickleball presents unique challenges that require a thoughtful approach, dedicated practice, and strategic adjustments to master.
Leigh Waters, a distinguished coach and the mother of World No. 1 pickleball player Anna Leigh Waters, offers valuable insights for tennis players eager to thrive in pickleball. Reflecting on her and her daughter’s initial experiences, Leigh shares, “When Anna Leigh and I first started playing pickleball, we were both tennis players and we just went out there and ripped balls and used our tennis volleys.”
The aggressive power game was crucial for Leigh and Anna Leigh as they adapted to pickleball, quickly establishing themselves as formidable competitors. Leigh explains, “Tennis players have the ground strokes, they have the power game, and they have great footwork and endurance. I say continue to play a little bit more tennis on the pickleball court for a little bit longer. The hardest thing is obviously the finesse and dinking, and that will come, but it takes time.”
Rather than perceiving a tennis background as a hindrance, Leigh views it as a significant asset. Anna Leigh’s powerful play style exemplifies this advantage, making her a formidable force on the pickleball court. “Take advantage of what your great skill set is. Go ahead and be aggressive, hit the ball hard, and try to get in those hands battles,” Leigh advises. “The dinking and soft game will come.”
With her extensive experience coaching her daughter to the top of the pickleball world, Leigh Waters’ guidance is invaluable. For tennis players aspiring to make their mark in pickleball, her advice offers a strategic roadmap to leverage their strengths and cultivate new skills in this dynamic sport.