| Rule Submission Title | Challenge a Player's Paddle Procedure |
|---|---|
| USAP Board Vote | Disapproved |
| USAP Board Vote Reason | Players in unofficiated matches already have the right to request the Head Referee or Tournament Director to determine if a paddle is approved. This proposal introduces a problematic procedure that extends to all paddle specifications, potentially slowing down matches and opening the door to gamesmanship. In tournaments that conduct paddle testing using specialized equipment, it is typically specified that such testing applies only to paddles used in completed matches. If a paddle is challenged, it is tested after the match and does not affect the outcome of that match. Some tours permit referees to consult the Head Referee if there is concern that a paddle has deteriorated. If the Head Referee concurs, testing is still deferred until after the match concludes. While the number of tournaments implementing formal paddle testing is growing, they still represent a small minority. The sport is not yet prepared for widespread paddle testing requirements, as the necessary processes, equipment, and standards are not yet consistent across the sport. |
| Existing Rule # | 2.F.1 |
| Proposed Rule Change | In an unofficiated match, a player may challenge that an opponent’s paddle is in violation of any required specifications. The player must make the challenge to the TD or the TD’s designee. If the match is officiated, the paddle challenge will be directed to the referee. If the challenged paddle is in violation, the official will access the required Match Forfeit. If the paddle is not in violation, the team making the challenge is assessed a TF and play will continue. Since there may be a penalty accessed for challenging a player’s paddle the TD or referee will confirm that the player is making the challenge before proceeding. If the paddle has come in violation during play of the match and is challenged, (i.e. the paddle has become cracked, damaged or delaminated etc..) the player will be required to change paddles and will receive no penalty. The referee at any time can stop play to inspect a paddle that they suspect may be in violation or may have come into violation during the match. |
| Original Rule Text | New Rule Under 2.F.1 |
| Reasoning Behind Suggested Change | There has been frustration by some that even though there is rule 2.F.1a that specifies a penalty for playing with a paddle that is in violation of the rules, there is no mechanism for a player to question or enforce the rule. There is currently no procedure to allow a referee to stop play mid-match to inspect a paddle. There is no procedure that would allow a player to challenge another player’s paddle. Players know there is no mechanism to have their paddles checked during the match in unofficiated play. . |
| Scenarios In Which the Rules Applies | A player chooses to play with a paddle that is not on the USA Pickleball Approved paddle list. The player knows that if there is not a referee, no one is going to inspect his paddle and there is no procedure for their opponent to do so. This incentivizes a player who is attempting to get an unfair advantage. The players also know that once the match is complete, the match stands even if it was played with a paddle that is in violation. |
| Rule Book Year | 2026 |
| Rule Change ID | 2178 |
| Date Created | April 28, 2025 |
| View Comments | View Comments |
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