USA Pickleball has announced several key rule changes set to take effect on January 1, 2025, aimed at promoting fairness and clarity in the game.
As a referee I have read, re -read, analyzed, discussed with other referees these “key changes” so I can share them with you now!

1. No spectator input on line calls. 

You cannot ask or accept input. This is not really new; just more specific. rule 6.C.4.

2. Clarified “Not Ready” signal.

Players on the non-serving team can now use verbal cues like “stop” or “wait” to indicate they aren’t ready.
Hmm. Not exactly earth shattering. If it’s noisy on the courts, holding your hand up still works best.

3. Redefining the volley and momentum.

The act of volleying now begins when the ball is hit out of the air and ends when the player’s movement from the follow-through action (momentum) stops.” (rule 9.B.1)
They have basically removed backswing from the definition of volley.

4. Serving changes (Rule 4.A.5.)

Currently, “the serve shall be made with only one hand releasing the ball.” The new rule change will also allow you to release the ball with your paddle as well.
If you serve with the drop serve and want to drop the ball from your paddle (instead of your hand), you have to let the ball roll off the face of the paddle using gravity only (no force).
Despite this change, you are still not allowed to impart spin on the ball.

5. Rule 13.D.1.c

Introduces a replay if teams disagree on a foot fault call. BOTH player of a team must agree with each other on a foot fault (on the other team) for the replay to occur. It was previously just a “player.”

6. Rule 7.O

Ensures that any disagreement between partners on a fault call is decided in favor of the opponents. Players are now expected to call faults on themselves or their partners* immediately, promoting fairness and upholding sportsmanship. (*new) Players are expected always to promote fair play. I do sometimes hear players say they will not over rule their partner’s out call in a tournament even if they clearly saw it in. This is not in line with fair play, sportsmanship, personal integrity…….

Shall I go on?

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