If you're a tennis player making the leap to pickleball, welcome to your next obsession. But don’t just grab any paddle and hit the court — your tennis background gives you unique strengths, and the right paddle can unlock them.
In this guide, we’ll break down what tennis players should look for in a pickleball paddle, how it affects your transition, and which Addict paddles give you the best mix of power, control, and comfort.
What Tennis Players Need in a Pickleball Paddle
Switching from a tennis racket to a paddle isn’t always easy. You’re used to a longer handle, a larger sweet spot, and a heavier, more powerful frame. Here’s what you should prioritize:
🎾 Elongated Handle
If you're used to two-handed backhands, you’ll want an extended grip to maintain that familiar motion.
💥 Power with Control
Tennis players naturally hit hard — the challenge is learning touch shots like dinks and resets. A paddle that blends both power and control will ease this transition.
🤕 Arm-Friendly Feel
If you’ve ever dealt with tennis elbow, look for paddles with vibration-dampening cores and smooth feedback. The switch to a paddle should reduce stress — not cause more.
🎯 Forgiving Sweet Spot
You’re probably taking big swings at first — a large, consistent sweet spot helps eliminate mishits as you adjust to the paddle’s compact head.
Top Pickleball Paddles for Tennis Players (From Addict)
At Addict Pickleball, we’ve engineered premium paddles that deliver elite performance and comfort — especially for crossover athletes like tennis players.
🔷 Infinity X – Best Paddle for Power and Reach
USAP Approved
If you love your forehand winners and baseline drives, the Infinity X is your paddle.
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Hybrid elongated shape for reach and added whip
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Toray T700 Carbon Fiber face for unmatched spin and pop
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14mm/16mm core for balanced control without sacrificing power
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Octagonal handle for easy grip switching
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Proprietary weight distribution keeps it stable through volleys and drives
“The Infinity X made it feel like I never left the tennis court. The power and reach are perfect for aggressive play.” – Chris Hensley
⚪ Catalyst – Best Paddle for Control-Focused Tennis Players
USAP Approved
For tennis players focused on placement, precision, and soft game mastery, the Catalyst is your go-to.
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Cold-pressed Carbon Fusion Surface for silky feel and enhanced control
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Elongated handle for two-handed backhands
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Massive sweet spot via Kinetic Core Technology
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EdgeGuard protection for long-lasting durability
“I transitioned from tennis last year. The Catalyst gives me finesse and spin while still feeling powerful when I need it.” – Nickee Dickens
🟩 Infinity 8 – Balanced Control for All-Around Play
USAP Approved
If you’re not sure what style you’ll lean into yet, start with the Infinity 8.
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16mm thick core for high control and spin dwell time
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Toray T700 tri-layer carbon fiber face for consistent shot feedback
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Z4 Peel Ply surface for added grip on the ball
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A great all-around option as you figure out your pickleball identity
Bonus Tips for Tennis Converts
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Use your footwork advantage: Tennis players usually have better court movement — leverage that in doubles.
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Practice your soft game early: Drop shots, dinks, and resets will feel unnatural at first. Stick with it.
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Start with a control-oriented paddle until you master tempo.
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Pay attention to grip size and comfort — you'll likely want a similar feel to your tennis racket.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to start from zero. With the right paddle, your tennis skills can give you a serious edge on the pickleball court. Addict paddles are built for performance, precision, and confidence — and designed to elevate former tennis players into dominant pickleball athletes.
If you're ready to make the switch, the Infinity X, Catalyst, and Infinity 8 are your top-tier options.
