7 Unwritten Pickleball Etiquette Rules Every Player Should Know
Pickleball: The game that’s sweeping the nation. No longer a sport just for the over-70 crowd (shocking, I know), pickleball has become the sport for everyone. Even better? The largest age group playing right now is between 18-35.
Now, let’s talk about something that might surprise you: the unspoken rules of pickleball etiquette. You know, the ones that aren’t on any official rulebook, but are absolutely necessary to keep the game flowing, make things fun, and (let’s be real) prevent you from becoming the person everyone avoids at the courts.
These are easy to remember, so use them. You will thank me later.
1. Show the Ball & Call Out the Score
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s a rule that often gets overlooked. Some just "quick serve" the opponent without even calling the score. That's annoying, not just to me, but to most players. There’s already confusion about scores, why make it tougher.
Before serving, always show the ball to your opponent (it’s just a polite way to let them know you're ready). And when you call out the score, make sure it's loud and clear. There’s nothing worse than starting a rally and realizing no one knows what the score is.
2. Hit the Ball Across the Court (When It's on Your Side)
This one’s simple: don’t go chasing balls across other people’s courts. Sometimes it’s tempting to get that ball, but it’s bad etiquette to interrupt a game mid-rally by running through someone else's court. Just wait until the point is over. More than likely someone will say out loud, "Ball on court" and the point will stop and restart.
3. If the Ball Does Go on Your Court, Pick It Up and Toss It Back
This one’s huge: don't be the irritable person that’s mad about the ball invading their space, their court! How dare they! LOL. More than likely it is not your court owned by you.
Pick it up, toss it nicely back to the owner, and move on. It happens. No one is perfect, and this is part of the game. DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT smack the ball over on the ground. I have seen it too many times. Plus, it's just rude.
4. Use Legal Paddles (Seriously)
I get it! You’re excited to get out there and show your skills with your brand spanking new POWER paddle. It will make you the pro you’ve always strived to be. But make sure your paddle is legal before you start whacking away.
A “legal” paddle means it complies with size and material standards and is on the approved list. Now...I know, it is not a sanctioned tournament and it’s just rec play, BUT people still follow the paddle list rules, even if it truly doesn't matter. Well, guess what. It does. Just follow the paddle guidelines.
5. Don’t Be the Thief of Balls
There are always those people. All of a sudden, a ball disappears here. Then there. Please, people. Buy your own balls and mark them with initials or a symbol. Don't take ones from the courts. Another easy one. Mama taught you this when you were young. "Don't Steal."
6. No Yelling or Constant Excuses
We get it. You missed the shot. Happens to the best of us! But don’t turn your missed serve into a dramatic opera performance. Keep it chill and don’t start the endless “darn, I just was not ready” or “the sun was in my eyes” excuses.
This one’s my favorite: "I would have hit it perfectly if it wasn't for the wind." Pickleball is all about fun and competition, not about making a scene. Plus...always remember this. Champions adapt. They adjust to the climate, the sun, the wind, the player. Let's go!
7. Don’t Be Overly Competitive (When You Have the Advantage)
Listen, we all want to win. But when you're already ahead by a mile, there's no need to play at 110%. Take it easy on your opponents, especially if they’re newer or having an off day.
No one wants to get destroyed by a pro. Keep the energy light and fun, and let your opponents have their moments to shine. Chances are, they already know you’re a good player. Be humble!
8. Tapping Paddles and Saying "Good Game"
After a match, always tap paddles with your opponents and say, “Good game.” Look them in the eye and mean it. It’s not just about being polite, it's about respect. Whether you win or lose, showing sportsmanship will earn you much more respect than any trophy ever could.
Next time you're at the courts, keep these unspoken rules of pickleball etiquette in mind. You’ll not only become a better player, but you’ll also be the type of person people want to play with. And hey, you might even become the person who gets invited back to the game next week!