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Dec 26, 2024

New Pickleball Rules for 2025

Pickleball Rule Changes 12/26/24
Source:  In the Kitchen Newsletter


The 2025 USA Pickleball Rulebook has landed, and it’s time to unpack the changes that will shape the way many play on the court next year.

Here are the most notable changes you need to know about (full rulebook here):

1. No more spectator input on line calls (rule 6.C.4)
It’s official: spectators are completely off-limits when it comes to making line calls.
The wording shifts from “should not be consulted” to “shall not be consulted,” eliminating any gray areas. This means players can neither ask for nor accept line call input from bystanders.

Why it matters: USA Pickleball is closing the door on the distractions (and potential drama) that unsolicited advice from the sidelines can create.

2. Rally scoring makes its provisional debut (rules 4.G.1 & 12.B.1)

Rally scoring, the format made popular by Major League Pickleball, involves a point being awarded on every rally, regardless of who served (as opposed to the standard side-out scoring method where each doubles team is allowed two chances to score and a point is only awarded to those on offense).

New rally scoring rules have been provisionally introduced for doubles in the newest USAP rulebook. However, traditional side-out scoring remains the official format for most tournaments.

Key details:

  • Game-winning points can only be scored by the serving team.
  • Rally scoring will apply in specific formats like doubles round-robin play and team events.
  • The USAP National Championships will stick with side-out scoring for now.

Why it matters: This scoring option, already used in singles, offers faster games and an exciting dynamic for players and spectators alike. However, it’s up to tournament directors to implement it.

3. New “not ready” signal (rule 4.C.2)
Players on the receiving team can now verbally indicate they’re not ready (e.g., saying “wait” or “stop”) after the score is called. The serve, however, will proceed unless the server recognizes the signal.

Why it matters: This change codifies a common courtesy and aims to minimize disputes while maintaining the spirit of fair play.

4. Clarifying the volley (rules 9.B.1 & 9.H)
The updated rules redefine when a volley begins and ends:

  • The volley starts when the ball is struck in the air and ends when the player’s momentum stops.
  • Partners can’t touch each other during a volley if one is in the Non-Volley Zone (the kitchen).

Why it matters: These adjustments eliminate confusion around partner interactions and clarify how momentum affects legal play.

5. Paddle autographs allowed (rule 2.E.5.c)
Good news for pro pickleball fans: autographs on paddles are now allowed, provided they don’t alter the paddle’s surface.

Why it matters: This change brings clarity for players who want to showcase their favorite pro’s signature without risking disqualification.

6. Serving Clarifications (Rule 4.A.5)
Players can now release the ball with either their hand or paddle when serving. However, imparting spin—by hand or paddle—remains illegal.

Why it matters: This eliminates prior ambiguities while maintaining a level playing field.