Targeting the weaker player

Have you ever found yourself on the Pickleball court, watching as the opposing team consistently targets your partner, who happens to be the less experienced (Weaker) player on your team? We've all experienced this at some point, haven't we? How do you respond in such situations?

It can be quite frustrating, but what is the proper etiquette in this scenario? In a sport that attracts millions of new players each year, it can often be difficult to find four players of similar skill levels. Consequently, there will always be someone who is less skilled.

When the sport surged in popularity in 2020, we quickly realized that there were far more players than available courts. Many of these courts implemented a "Winner Stays On" rule, which meant that the losing team had to vacate the court and wait for their next turn. Often, these wait times were quite long, leading to an increased pressure to "win at all costs."

We observed players specifically targeting the less experienced player towards the end of games in a bid to remain on the court. This led to snide remarks, name-calling, and even arguments, making Pickleball a focal point for controversy. What seemed to matter more to these players: playing the game with integrity or simply staying on the court? (You can probably guess the answer.)

Today, with the rapid increase in both indoor and outdoor Pickleball courts being built, players can now organize games with others of similar skill levels. This means that the "winner stays on" format and accompanying long wait times are becoming less common. 

One would think that the urge to target the less experienced player would have diminished by now. Wouldn't a player enhance their skills by challenging themselves against better opponents and observing more refined shots and movements? 
Doesn’t targeting the less experienced player negatively impact their confidence?

This raises the question: "What constitutes proper etiquette?" Is there a definitive right answer?

Please share your thoughts with us.