Pickleball Superstitions & Funny Habits: What’s Yours?

Ever noticed how some players always tap their paddle twice before serving? Or how certain balls just ‘feel lucky’? Superstitions and quirky habits are everywhere in pickleball—how many of these do you relate to? 

Common Pickleball Superstitions – Lucky paddles, "jinxed" courts, pre-serve rituals

Superstitions are a common part of many sports, and pickleball is no exception. Some players believe that certain paddles are "lucky," while others swear by specific rituals before serving. For instance, tapping the paddle twice before serving, or taking a deep breath before each point, is thought to bring good luck or ward off negative energy. Some even go as far as having a "lucky" ball that they’ll only use during important matches.

Another common superstition is avoiding certain courts, which players may think are “jinxed” or have bad energy. Whether it’s the lighting, the angle of the sun, or just the feel of the court, some players firmly believe that certain courts are unlucky and prefer to avoid them for big games.

Weird & Funny Player Habits – Walking around the net a certain way, always drinking from the same bottle

Pickleball players tend to develop some pretty unique habits, often without even realizing it. Some players walk around the net a certain way before every match, while others might always stand in the same spot on the court to feel "aligned" with the game. Maybe you always bounce the ball three times before serving, or you never fail to tie your shoes in a particular way. These odd quirks give players a sense of routine and consistency, making them feel mentally prepared for the match ahead.

One of the funniest habits involves hydration. Some players may only drink from a specific water bottle, and if someone else accidentally grabs it, it might be considered bad luck. It’s not that the bottle is magical—it’s just that these small habits become comforting and routine for players. They might even bring a bit of humor to the court, making the game more enjoyable.

PHOTO: PERFORMANCE PICKLEBALL

Do Superstitions Actually Work? – The psychology behind sports rituals

It’s easy to laugh at the idea of a lucky paddle or a “jinxed” court, but there’s actually psychology behind these sports rituals. Psychologists believe that superstitions and habits can enhance performance by creating a sense of control in an otherwise unpredictable environment.

In sports, performance anxiety can be a real challenge, and having these rituals provides a psychological boost. If players believe that a certain ritual or habit will improve their chances of success, it can actually help calm their nerves and increase focus. Superstitions help players feel like they have a greater influence on the outcome of the game, even when many factors (like an opponent’s skill or the weather) are out of their control.

For instance, if you’re having a rough game and perform your lucky ritual, it can shift your mindset. These actions can help reset your emotions, focus your mind, and boost your confidence.

Community Stories: Your Funniest Pickleball Habits – Collect and showcase stories from club members

Performance Pickleball’s Coach Dwi Mahendra cited a few rituals he always carries out in any competition, including “wearing a good outfit” and trying to “relax [and interact] with the spectators”.

“When in doubt, change [your] overgrip,” said Ivan Lee, a regular player at Performance Pickleball. 

Embracing the Fun of the Game – Why these little habits make pickleball even more enjoyable

The most important thing to remember is that pickleball is, at its core, about having fun. Whether it’s tapping your paddle for luck, wearing your favorite socks, or walking around the net a certain way, these little rituals and superstitions only add to the joy of the game. They create a sense of routine, bring comfort in moments of uncertainty, and give players something to laugh about with their friends.

PHOTO: PERFORMANCE PICKLEBALL

While it’s easy to get caught up in the competitive side of pickleball, these quirky habits remind us that sports can be fun and lighthearted. At the end of the day, it’s about enjoying the game and sharing those moments with others.

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