USA Pickleball Rule Changes for 2025 that You Should Know
Published November 11th, 2024
The new pickleball rules for 2025, recently approved by USA Pickleball, introduce several updates aimed at refining the game and enhancing fairness across various scenarios. Here are a few highlights:
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Spectators Cannot be Consulted for Any Line Calls (Rule 6.C.4): Spectator interference in making line calls will no longer be allowed, ensuring that only players and officials can make judgments on the court. This rule aims to reduce external influence on the game.
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Sportsmanship in Non-Officiated Matches (Rules under 13.D.1): Several rules about calling faults have been edited. A new emphasis on sportsmanship encourages players in non-officiated matches to maintain high standards of fair play, promoting self-regulation and respect among players. For example, 13.D.1.a clarifies that players should call faults on their partner.
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Autographs are Allowed on Paddles (Rule 2.E.5.c): Rule 2.E.5.c has been edited to allow for an autograph on a paddle used in tournament pay. The rule now reads " The only permissible handwritten pen markings allowed on the paddle's playing surface must be for identification purposes only (name, signature, phone, email address) or an autograph. No aftermarket graphics are allowed on a commercially made paddle."
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Players Can Use Verbal Indicators as Not Ready Signals (Rule 4.C.2): Rule 4.C.2 previously read as "4.C.2. After the start of the score being called, “not ready” signals will be ignored, unless there is a hinder. A player or team out of position is not considered a hinder.". In 2025 this sentence will be added to the end of it "Verbal indicators to stop play such as "stop" and "wait" will be recognized.".
- Round-Robin Tie-Breaker Criteria (Rule 12.C.4): Updates to the tie-breaker criteria in round-robin tournaments aim to provide clearer, fairer resolutions in case of tied outcomes, ensuring consistency in tournament play.
These changes reflect USA Pickleball’s ongoing efforts to improve game quality and ensure fair play at all levels of competition. For a complete list of the rule changes, you can visit the USA Pickleball website to see more details.
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