Pickleball Rule Changes for 2023: What You Need to Know

Attention all pickleball fanatics! The year 2023 ushers in some notable rule changes that will impact the way we play this beloved sport.

From the elimination of the one-handed spin serve to new guidelines concerning clothing colors, it’s time to familiarize yourself with these updates to stay on top of your game.

In this guide, I’ll dive into each rule change and provide real-life examples to help you better understand the implications.

The End of One-Handed Spin Serves

The one-handed spin serve has been a controversial topic in recent years. In 2022, USA Pickleball put an end to the “chainsaw serve,” but the “one-handed spin serve” was still permitted. However, starting in 2023, the one-handed spin serve will be prohibited.

Imagine this scenario: Sally, a seasoned pickleball player, uses her non-paddle hand to impart spin on the ball before serving. Under the new rules, Sally's serve would be considered illegal, and she would need to modify her serving technique to comply with the updated regulations.

The reasoning behind this change includes the original purpose of the serve (to begin play, not gain an advantage), the difficulty most players have mastering spin serves and returning them, and the unfair advantage gained by those who have mastered the technique. For a deeper understanding of the ban on spin serves, check out this article.

Replays for Uncertain Service Motion or Ball Release Violations

Before 2023, if a player violated the service motion or ball release rules (e.g., making contact with the ball above the waist), it resulted in a fault and loss of the serve. Starting in 2023, any such violation may result in a replay if the referee is uncertain whether a serving violation occurred.

For example, during a heated match, Mike serves the ball, but the referee isn't sure whether he made contact above the waist. In this case, the referee may call a replay instead of an immediate fault. However, this new rule doesn't apply to foot faults but does apply to imparted spin. 

New Protocol for Wrong Scores Called

In 2022, players couldn’t stop play after the serve if the wrong score was called. Starting in 2023, the rules revert to the previous version, allowing players to stop play before the return of the serve to correct a wrongly called score.

Imagine a doubles match where John and Jane are playing against Tom and Tina. The referee calls the wrong score, and John quickly stops playing before the return of the serve to correct it. Under the new rules, this is allowed. However, stopping play after the return of the serve or when the score is actually correct results in a fault.

Clothing Color Considerations

Pickleball players should avoid wearing clothing that closely matches the ball color. This rule change aims to reduce confusion and make it easier for players to see the ball during play.

For instance, during a friendly match at the local park, Sarah wears a neon yellow shirt that closely resembles the color of the pickleball. Under the new guidelines, Sarah should choose a different shirt to avoid causing confusion for other players.

In tournaments, directors may require players to change apparel that closely matches the ball color. So, think twice before donning those bright yellows and neon shades on the court!

Equipment Time-Outs: A Welcome Change

Previously, if you experienced an equipment malfunction during a tournament, you had

to use a time-out or time between games to fix or replace your gear. Starting in 2023, referees can award equipment time-outs to accommodate necessary adjustments or replacements, saving players from using their regular time-outs.

Imagine you're playing in a tournament and your paddle suddenly breaks. Instead of using one of your precious time-outs, the referee can now grant you an equipment time-out to find a replacement paddle. This change is particularly helpful for tournament players who want to conserve their regular time-outs for strategic purposes.

In the non-officiated play, players are encouraged to work together to provide reasonable accommodations in these situations. So, if you’re playing a casual game and a friend’s paddle strap snaps, consider pausing the game briefly to allow for a quick fix or replacement.

Reducing Conflict with Rulebook Revisions

The Official Rulebook has undergone revisions to minimize potential conflicts between referees and players. These changes include clarifications on:

• When line calls should be made
• What happens when a player is hit by the pickleball
• How to handle “degraded” pickleballs
• The types of questions players can ask referees (e.g., “Am I good?” is now sufficient when inquiring about the correct server, receiver, or position)

These revisions aim to improve the overall experience for both players and referees by reducing confusion and potential conflicts on the court.

Embracing the 2023 Pickleball Rule Changes

The 2023 rule changes will undoubtedly affect the way we play pickleball, but they are designed to make the game more enjoyable and fair for everyone involved. By understanding these updates and incorporating them into your gameplay, you’ll be better prepared to excel on the court.

So, take some time to study these new regulations, discuss them with your fellow players, and be ready to embrace the changes as you take your pickleball skills to new heights. Happy playing!