Court etiquette
The unwritten rules of pickleball, from paddle stacking and open play rotations to fair line calls, stray balls and post-game paddle taps. Follow these and you will be welcome on any court.
Why etiquette matters
Pickleball's social side is a huge part of its appeal. Most players meet new partners every week at open play, and the game runs on shared expectations. Knowing the etiquette makes you a player people want to play with.
Getting on court
- Follow the local system. Many parks use a paddle rack or paddle stack: you place your paddle in line, and the next four paddles go on when a court opens. Others use a whiteboard, an app or a "challenge court."
- Ask before joining. If you are new, ask someone how the rotation works.
- Respect skill-level courts. Some venues set aside courts for certain levels. Play where you fit, or ask politely to join.
- Do not hog courts. When people are waiting, play one game and rotate off.
During play
- Call the score clearly before each serve.
- Make fair line calls on your side, and give the benefit of the doubt. See line calls.
- Call your own faults, such as kitchen violations.
- Do not cross behind another court during a rally. Wait for a pause, then walk quickly along the back fence.
- Stray balls: if a ball rolls onto your court during a rally, call "ball on court" and stop play. Replay the point. Return balls to the neighboring court during a pause, by rolling or lobbing gently, not by smashing.
- Avoid coaching strangers unless they ask for advice.
Playing with different levels
In open play you will be paired with stronger and weaker players.
- If you are stronger, keep balls in play and avoid repeatedly hammering the weakest player.
- If you are newer, be honest about your level and say thanks to players who include you.
- It is fine to play hard, but match the vibe of the session.
Safety courtesy
- Warn others about balls rolling under their feet.
- Do not hit at someone's face at close range on purpose. Body shots are part of the game, but recreational play values safety.
- Check that the court is dry before play.
After the game
- Meet at the net and tap paddles, or say "good game."
- Collect your balls and gear.
- Rotate off promptly when others are waiting.
Quick do and do not table
| Do | Do not |
|---|---|
| Say the score loudly before every serve | Argue line calls on the other side |
| Return stray balls between points | Walk behind courts mid-rally |
| Give the benefit of the doubt | Hog courts when others wait |
| Introduce yourself to new partners | Coach unless asked |
| Thank the people who organize open play | Leave trash or balls behind |
Sportsmanship in tournaments
Tournaments add formal rules, but the same spirit applies: honest calls, respect for referees, a handshake or paddle tap at the end. Read more about events in game formats and pro tours.
Learning players' names at your local courts is the fastest way to get invited to better games.
