If you’ve ever stepped onto a pickleball court during open play, you know this to be true: ball ownership is a big deal.
Ask any player, newbie or seasoned regular, and they’ll probably have a story involving a horrible game played with a sketchy neon ball, or the time they swear someone walked off with their Pro S1.
Pickleballs may be small, but the drama they stir up can be … big. So let’s deflate the tension and run through the unspoken etiquette of ball ownership, complete with a few scripts to help you handle situations like a pro.
What if someone brings a bad ball brand?
Picture this: You’ve just finished a warm-up, and your partner pulls out a ball and says, “Let’s use this one.” You recognize the brand, and it’s not one you’d willingly use outside of fetch with your dog.
Etiquette tip: You’re allowed to suggest a better ball. Just do it kindly.
Try saying:
“Hey, would you mind if we used mine? I’ve got a fresh one.”
If they’re firm on using their own? Well, unless you're in a tournament, it’s just one game. Smile, play it out, and maybe make a mental note for next time.
What if their ball is cracked and they won’t trade?
Pickleball players can be superstitious and often don't want to switch pickleballs while they're winning. So what do you do if you see the weird spin typical of an out-of-round ball, but your opponent insists it’s “totally fine”?
Etiquette tip: It’s fair to bring it up, but don’t escalate to courtroom drama.
Try saying:
“I think this one’s cracked — it’s bouncing kinda funny. Want to switch to a fresh one?”
If they still won’t budge, you can either humor them for one game or — if you're feeling sneaky — switch to your ball the next time you serve.
How do I keep people from stealing my ball?
Ah, the accidental ball theft. High-quality balls aren't cheap, so it's important to keep an eye on yours.
Etiquette tip: Mark your ball with a Sharpie. Draw a smiley face. Write your initials. Put a tiny pickle emoji if that brings you joy.
And if you do see someone walk off with your clearly labeled ball:
Try saying:
“Hey, I think that one’s mine — I marked it with my initials. No worries, easy mix-up!”
Keep it light. Most of the time, it really is a mistake. If it's not, try offering up a way for people to purchase their own.
What if I crack someone else’s ball?
It happens. You go for an overhead smash or a big drive, and the ball cracks. Are you on the hook for a replacement?
Etiquette tip: If you crack someone else’s ball during your game and you don't regularly play with them, it’s polite to offer a replacement, especially if they’re clearly bummed about it.
Try saying:
“Oh shoot, I think I cracked your ball. Want me to grab you a new one?”
Will most people decline? Probably. But offering shows class and earns you major pickleball karma points.
Other unspoken rules of pickleball ball etiquette
Aside from the major ball etiquette rules, there are a few other tips that can help you avoid ball drama when playing on public courts.
1. Use the ball already in play
If you're joining a game already in progress, use the ball already in play unless someone suggests otherwise. Don’t show up and immediately demand a ball swap.
2. Don’t hoard the good balls
You brought that fresh, premium ball? Great — but don’t snatch it back the moment you lose a game. Let others play with it until you're ready to leave the courts.
3. Calmly return the ball to your opponents
Losing a long point or tight game can be frustrating, but don't whip the ball across the net. Gently toss the ball to your opponent or set it down near the net for the next group.
4. Don't steal other balls
This one is a no-brainer. You don't want someone to take your equipment, so don't do it yourself. Some open play groups operate with communal equipment. If it’s a shared-use ball, treat it kindly and don’t pocket it on your way out.
