Pickleball is an active and enjoyable game, however sometimes the ball may accidentally hit you. In this situation, it can be unclear as to what should happen next - do you forfeit the point? Or continue playing? Learn the rules here to know exactly what to do when your opponent's ball comes flying at you!

What Happens If The Ball Hits You? 

It is a fault against you if a ball in play hits you. Even if it only grazes your hair, this is true. It makes no difference where you are on the court. If you are standing well outside the boundary lines and the ball hits you before it lands, it is still your fault.

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When Is the Ball Considered Out of Play?

The ball is out of play when it touches any part of a player’s body, or equipment, or when the player has hit it twice consecutively. So if the ball hits you, it is considered "dead". For fairness, no point will be counted and your opponent will receive a new serve. If the ball hits you in the non-volley zone after having been served from the opposite court, your opponent loses the point due to their fault. But can you appeal this?

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What Is a "Lets" and How to Resolve It?

In Pickleball, a "let" is an appeal for the point to be replayed due to interference. Any player may invoke a “Let” by stating it after the ball has been served. The “Let” call stops play and should be used in instances where you feel your opponent did not have enough time or distance to make a fair return as they had just been disturbed. The non-volley zone rule is voided at this point but all other rules still apply. The referee will then decide whether the point should be replayed or awarded to either player.

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Miscellaneous Rules for Safety and Courtesy During Pickleball Play

Miscellaneous rules must be followed for the safety and courtesy of all players. During a Pickleball game, players must avoid contact with other players or their equipment. Players should also refrain from making excessive noise or engaging in distracting behavior such as slamming the paddle into the ground or court floor. They should also abstain from any kind of violence as well as rude words or actions. In Pickleball, sportsmanship is an important part of the game and should always be kept in mind.

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You Make the Call!

What's the call in this odd scenario?

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If you attempt a volley but hit the ball just above your wrist and it goes over. Who wins the rally?

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 Have you ever been playing pickleball and had a ball hit you? If so, what happens? According to the official rules of pickleball, if the ball hits you anywhere on your body other than below your wrist on your paddle hand, then it is considered a fault. This means that the opponent would get a point. So be sure to keep your hands safe and away from the area where the ball may be hit!

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