Mixed Doubles Pickleball: Tactics & Strategies for Success
Mixed doubles is one of the most popular—and fun—formats in pickleball. But it also comes with its own set of strategies. Since men and women often have different playing styles and strengths, understanding how to work together as a team is key to playing smart and winning more points. Here are some tactical tips to help both partners play to their strengths and attack effectively as a duo. Of course the more court time you have together the better the chance of success!
1. Know Your Roles (But Stay Flexible)
In mixed doubles, the male player often covers more of the middle and the court overall, especially when it comes to power shots. The female player typically holds strong at the kitchen line, using consistency, placement, and dinks to set up the point.
That said, roles aren’t fixed—if the female player is aggressive and confident, she should absolutely take control when she sees the opportunity. It’s all about playing to each other’s strengths. Coach Luke says: usually the male partner takes the left side of the court (if both are right handed) - but it doesn’t have to be that way! If the female partner is stronger then reverse that!
2. Use Stacking for Better Court Positioning
Stacking is a great tactic in mixed doubles. It allows the stronger forehand (often the male’s) to cover the middle and apply pressure. For example, you can both start on the same side after serving or returning so that the male player ends up in the middle of the court, covering the high-percentage zone. Coach Luke says: Only stack if it’s with a partner you are familiar with - stacking often goes wrong if you are a new pairing.
3. Control the Kitchen Line Together
Both players should aim to get to the kitchen line as quickly as possible after the serve or return. Once you're both up, the female player can apply pressure with well-placed dinks and resets, while the male can look for attackable balls to finish the point. Communication here is key—know when to switch sides, take overheads, or let balls bounce.
4. Target the Weaker Opponent, Not the Weaker Partner
In mixed doubles, some teams make the mistake of only hitting to the female player, assuming she’s the weaker link. That’s not always the case—and a smart team focuses on who’s actually making the errors. Use soft, deep returns, wide dinks, and well-placed lobs to throw off rhythm and create openings. Coach Luke says: Use the 70-30 rule. 70% of the balls to the weaker player and 30% to the stronger play. Note during a game the weaker player may change! Monitor who is struggling at that moment and target them!
5. Communicate and Support Each Other
Mixed doubles works best when both partners are encouraging and respectful. Keep the energy positive, call shots loudly and clearly, and celebrate the small wins to build momentum.
Looking to sharpen your mixed doubles skills? Join our pickleball coaching lessons in Auckland—we’ll help you build smart strategies and become a stronger team!
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