Think you know all there is to know about pickleball? Well, here’s the thing—sometimes it’s not just your forehand or serve that makes the difference, but how well you know the game’s quirks.
Understanding these lesser-known rules can give you an edge over your competition and help you outsmart even the toughest opponents.
Dive in to discover the sneaky ways you can turn rules into winning moves!
1. The “Second Bounce” Rule
- The Rule: The ball must bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: When serving or receiving, aim for deep, high shots. This forces your opponent into awkward positions during the initial bounces, making it harder for them to return aggressively. Set them up to make the first mistake!
- Pro Tip: Keep your opponent guessing by varying the depth and speed of your serves. It’s all about making them uncomfortable from the start.
2. Distraction Faults
- The Rule: Any deliberate action by your opponent meant to distract you, such as loud noises or unnecessary gestures, is a fault.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: If your opponent tries to distract you by yelling or making sudden movements, you can call it out and claim the point. It’s not just about skill—sometimes it’s about making sure the game stays fair.
- Pro Tip: Stay focused and don’t be afraid to stand your ground if your opponent’s behavior crosses the line. Knowing this rule can help maintain your mental edge.
3. The Re-Serve After Delay Rule
- The Rule: If an unexpected interruption occurs during your serve (like a ball rolling onto the court), you’re allowed to re-serve without penalty.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: If you feel rushed or something distracts you while serving, pause and call for a re-serve if there’s an interruption. This allows you to reset mentally and make sure you’re executing your best serve.
- Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to use this rule if there’s a legitimate distraction—it’s your right to take the time you need to serve effectively.
4. Equipment Time-Out
- The Rule: If your equipment, like your paddle or shoe, breaks during play, you’re allowed to call an equipment time-out to address the issue.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: If you’re in a tight spot and something happens with your gear, use the equipment time-out to reset, refocus, and disrupt your opponent’s momentum.
- Pro Tip: Always have backup gear ready—whether it’s an extra paddle or another pair of shoes—so you can get back into the game without losing your edge.
5. The Timeout for Sun Glare
- The Rule: While not specifically called a “sun glare timeout,” players may request a regular timeout to deal with environmental issues, including sun glare, under standard timeout rules.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: If the sun is at an awkward angle and impacting your ability to see, call a timeout. This not only gives you a moment to adjust but also disrupts your opponent’s rhythm, especially if they were gaining momentum.
- Pro Tip: Keep a pair of sunglasses or a hat handy. Using this rule wisely can help you regain your focus while putting a bit of pressure on your opponent.
6. Paddle Over the Net
- The Rule: You can reach over the net to finish a point, as long as you don’t touch the net and the ball has bounced on your side first.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: When your opponent leaves a shot hanging short, follow through over the net to make sure you put the point away—just don’t touch the net.
- Pro Tip: Practice those short put-aways to get comfortable reaching over, especially in high-pressure situations.
7. Serving Let Replays
- The Rule: If your serve clips the net but lands in the correct box, it’s a let, and you replay the serve. In professional pickleball, let serves are always redone, but many recreational players follow the 2021 USAP rule allowing play to continue. If you prefer playing by pro rules, just agree with the group beforehand to avoid confusion.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: Opponents may get flustered after a let. Stay calm, take a deep breath, and use the replay as an opportunity to serve even better.
- Pro Tip: Use lets as a mental reset—don’t rush, and take your time to deliver a perfect second serve.
8. Partner Communication for Line Calls
- The Rule: In doubles, both partners can make line calls, and you can overrule each other if needed.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: Communicate clearly with your partner. If you have a better angle, don’t hesitate to overrule their call to save points. Trust and teamwork make all the difference.
- Pro Tip: Develop simple verbal cues with your partner for better coordination during matches.
9. Double-Hit Rule
- The Rule: A double-hit is allowed if it’s done in a single continuous motion.
- How to Use It to Your Advantage: If the ball accidentally contacts your paddle twice in one swing, don’t stop play—it’s still legal as long as it’s one fluid motion. Keep playing and surprise your opponent.
- Pro Tip: Practice tricky shots with unexpected bounces to get comfortable with this rule—it might save you during an intense rally.
Play Smarter, Not Just Harder
Knowing these lesser-known rules can be the key to outsmarting your opponents. The best players don’t just rely on skill—they leverage every opportunity, including the finer points of the rulebook, to win. Next time you’re on the court, keep these tips in your back pocket and surprise your competition.
Take these rules, add them to your game, and watch as you turn tricky situations into easy points. Happy pickling!
