The phrase "a difficult time playing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a challenging experience or struggle related to playing a game, sport, or musical instrument.
Example: "She had a difficult time playing the piano during her first recital, but she improved with practice."
Alternatives: "struggling to play" or "having trouble playing".
CHIP SHOTS BILLY MAYFAIR (three over par) missed the cut and had a difficult time playing with TIGER WOODS.
For years, members of the Yonkers Amateur Golfers Association for Women had a difficult time playing together at the Dunwoodie Golf Course, said Peggy Harrold, the organization's treasurer.
The Cowboys collapsed down the stretch last season, dropping four of their last five games, and their defense might have a difficult time playing worse than it did in two of those losses to the Giants.
"I don't feel that I'm physically struggling and having a difficult time playing," Fisher said.
The company said its products are so far ahead of rivals in regulatory approval and patent protections that competitors will have a difficult time playing catch-up.
If your friend is going through a difficult time, do not play counselor.
"The club, which is going through a difficult time, has decided to play with the players of Chelsea's future and, because I am a big professional, I accept this decision," he wrote.
I have a difficult time seeing how labour unions play a role that's beneficial, on net, for society.
By the time Chia completed her 18-hole round during the local qualifying tournament of the Trusted Choice Big I Junior Classic on Tuesday afternoon, one might have had a difficult time believing she hadn't played at the 89-year-old venue.
"Particularly in a difficult time, the values and the culture play an important role," Eivind Slaaen, senior vice president for human resources, explains.
"After a difficult time at Chelsea he just wanted to be playing regularly.
