In a recent pro match at the APP So Cal Classic, one pro player expressed his frustration after hitting the pickleball into the net with an expletive that could be heard by the referees and even on the broadcast (see below – rated PG-13 for profanity ). In response to this profanity on the court, the referees immediately issued a verbal warning. While no points were awarded in connection with this verbal warning, excessive use of profanity or objectionable profanity could rise to the level of what is called a “technical foul” and points could be taken away and/or awarded (as applicable).
This exchange brings up a notable rules refresh… watch your use of profanity on the pickleball court, particularly in competitive play where technical warnings and technical fouls will be called. And, if you are used to using profanity to express yourself and need some help with alternatives, check out Pickler’s article, Fiddlesticks!
For a deeper breakdown on all of the rules of pickleball, check out Pickler’s Ultimate Guide to the Rules of Pickleball.
Have you had an interesting rules issue on the pickleball court? Send it to us at stacie@thepickler.com, so we can share with the rest of the pickleball community in a future newsletter.
