If you feel stuck in a cycle of losing at pickleball—whether in casual games or competitive play—you might think the problem is your technique, fitness, or shot selection. But what if the real reason was something deeper?
Kyle Koszuta (@thatpickleballguy) recently shared a fantastic video that breaks down why many players struggle to win, and it’s not what you’d expect. Instead of just focusing on mechanics, he dives into the mental side of the game—how you think while you play. And honestly? It’s a game-changer.
Here are the key takeaways from his video and how you can apply them to turn those losses into wins.
1. You’re Playing on Autopilot
One of the biggest mistakes players make is falling into predictable patterns. If you keep doing the same things without adjusting, your opponents will figure you out and exploit your weaknesses. Adaptability is key.
Fix It: Start paying attention to what’s working in the moment. If a certain shot isn’t effective, mix it up. If your opponent has a clear pattern, disrupt it. Stay mentally engaged instead of just going through the motions.
2. You’re Emotionally Reactive
Ever get frustrated after missing an easy shot? Or tense up when your opponent goes on a run? That emotional reaction can cloud your judgment and lead to even more mistakes.
Fix It: Accept that mistakes will happen. The best players don’t dwell on errors; they reset and refocus on the next point. Take a deep breath, control what you can, and move forward.
3. You’re Playing “Not to Lose” Instead of Playing to Win
There’s a difference between being careful and being passive. If you’re too afraid of making mistakes, you’ll hesitate, take fewer risks, and let your opponent dictate the game.
Fix It: Trust your shots. Confidence comes from practice, but also from allowing yourself to go for it. If you’re in a winning position, commit to it instead of playing it safe.
4. You’re Stuck in a Fixed Mindset
Some players blame bad luck, the wind, or even their opponent’s “lucky shots” when they lose. But that mindset stops you from growing.
Fix It: Instead of making excuses, ask yourself: What can I learn from this match? Losing isn’t failure—it’s feedback. Every game is an opportunity to improve if you stay coachable.
5. You’re Focusing on the Wrong Opponent
The biggest battle isn’t against the person on the other side of the net—it’s the one inside your head. Your thoughts, emotions, and reactions have more impact on your performance than anything your opponent does.
Fix It: Win your mind, and the game will follow. Work on your mental resilience just as much as your physical skills. Stay present, stay adaptable, and don’t let one mistake define the next point.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about improving at pickleball, take a step back and evaluate how you think during a match. Adaptability, emotional control, confidence, and a growth mindset are just as important as any dink or drive.
Huge credit to Kyle Koszuta (@thatpickleballguy) for these insights—his video really gets you thinking about how you think on the court. If you haven’t watched it yet, check it out here: Watch the Video.
Stay coachable, friends!
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