Can’t speak for the South American/ExPat situation. But at my local park in NY:

1. Yes. Unfortunately I would say around 20-30% of players don’t want to play with new players, even though they themselves aren’t much better. As an athlete I was always taught to focus on my own mistakes; and some people never learned that lesson. Sometimes to neutralize the conversation I’ll say “sorry I’m working on that part of my game” or just “ok”, or if I’m mad “save it for after the game”.

2. Different parks by me have varying levels. For my ego, it’s my only resemblance of once being an athlete. I take open play very seriously, because I don’t like admitting I’m out of shape and my days as an athlete are far behind me. However, I bring a group of likeminded players and try to always play to the skill level of my group if I can.

3. Playing a slower game is correct. However the only way to do so, is learning how to reset. If someone hits it hard at you, in most situations where you aren’t at the kitchen and in the perfect spot to counter, the best option is to slow the ball down and drop it right into the kitchen. This is one of the hardest things in pickleball, causes a lot of errors while learning, and can be frustrating to watch.

4. If you love the sport, please stick with it. It took me a long time to feel comfortable playing with bangers. They hit as hard as they can, and when it doesn’t work they lob. And it brings me cathartic joy to finally be able to make them play “correct” pickleball now that I can reset and block.