Line Calls in Pickleball


Have you been frustrated by line calls when playing pickleball?

Surely, almost anyone who has ever played has had some frustrations about line calls.

Even in Professional Pickleball there can be disagreements about line calls.  

The PPA and MLP tours have instituted a limited challenge system in an attempt to miminize inaccurate calls. 

However, even with the video reviews, it is often not clear whether a ball is in or out. 

But for those of us who are not professionals, how do we handle line calls?

First, we should discuss the current rules. 

What are the current rules?

  1.  Players call lines on their side of the court only.

  2.  You do not call lines on the opposite side of the court.

  3.  It goes without saying that you should be honest.

  4.  The line is considered "in."

  5.  If any part of the ball hits the line, it is "in."

  6.  A ball that is 99% "out" is still 100% "in."

  7.  The exception is the kitchen line.

  8.  The kitchen line is "in" the kitchen.

  9.  So, if a serve hits the kitchen line, it is "out" since the serve must clear the kitchen.

  10.  Accept your opponent's calls.

  11.  Give your opponents the benefit of the doubt.  

  12.  Spectators have no say in line calls.


Often, when you are actively trying to hit the ball, it is difficult for you to know for sure whether a ball is in or out when it is close.

Therefore, when playing doubles, your partner should be watching and make the call. 

Overall, you are always better off to earn the reputation of being very generous and fair in your line calls.  

It is rare that a whole game or match's outcome is determined by one line call. 

​So, be fair, and have fun!!