Everything to Know About Pickleball Ratings
Pickleball brings in players at all skill levels, which can sometimes make it hard to find someone at the same skill level to play against. It wouldn’t be fun or fair for a beginner to take on a pro. That’s what pickleball levels are for. To help you understand them and how to figure out your level, Jax Pickleball Store has compiled everything you need to know about pickleball ratings.
Why Ratings Are Important
Before we delve into the leveling systems, you first need to understand why ranks are so important in pickleball. Ranks take into account how well you can execute different shots, as well as your ability to understand strategy. If you’re a beginner and still learning the sport, your level will be lower than someone who’s been playing for years. The rating system ensures you play against equally matched players, rather than players high above your skill level. The rankings also showcase what you have to improve on if you want your level to increase.
Ratings
There are multiple rating systems, depending on if you’re a casual player or competing in tournaments. For this article, we’re going to focus on the system casual players use to describe their skill level. Ranging from 1.0 to 5.5+, as you improve your rank rises. Here are the levels, as well as what is needed to be ranked each level. For specific shots, be sure to consult the USA Pickleball Player Skill Ratings rubric.
1.0-2.0 Skill Rating
Players with this rating are brand new to the game. Although they have a general understanding of pickleball rules, they haven’t experienced playing on the court yet. They also don’t have a background in sports.
2.5 Skill Rating
Players with the 2.5 skill rating are still inexperienced but can last through a short rally with players of equal skill. They also have the basic ability to keep score.
3.0 Skill Rating
This skill rating is for players who understand the fundamentals and know where and how to position themselves on the court. They are also able to hit medium-paced pickleballs, as well as serve.
3.5 Skill Rating
3.5 players can easily differentiate between soft and hard games. They have better consistency and control of the ball and can move quickly toward the non-volley zone when needed. Players also have a basic knowledge of stacking and when it can be advantageous.
4.0 Skill Rating
When players have ranked at this level, they have a broad knowledge of the rules of the game and can move as a team with their partners. They’re also aware of their opponent's weaknesses and start to formulate strategies to capitalize on them.
4.5 Skill Rating
These players have extremely good footwork and a great understanding of strategy. They’re able to change direction with ease and can quickly adjust their style of play based on their opponents.
5.0 Skill Rating
Players with a 5.0 skill rating have mastered pickleball strategies and can quickly switch styles of play in both tournament and competitive matches. Their skill allows them to easily turn defensive shots into offensive shots and they rarely make unforced errors.
5.5+ Skill Rating
If a player is ranked 5.5+, then they are a master of the sport. A top caliber player, their numerous wins and performance showcases their ability.
How to Figure Out Your Level
There are two ways to determine your level. You can either decide your rating after looking at the definitions or consult experienced USA Pickleball players or tournament directors. They’ll help you find the level that suits you, and then it will be added to your pickleball tournament profile.
Every athlete wants to get better at the game, and that includes pickleball players. Understanding the level system helps you know how skilled you are and what you need to improve on. If you have questions about pickleball ratings or just the game in general, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jax Pickleball Store. We’ll happily answer any questions you may have.
