The serve sets the stage for each point, and whether it hits the net can be a source of confusion. Can a pickleball serve hit the net and still be good? Yes it can, but it must land on the correct service court side, otherwise, it’s considered a fault.
Back in the good old days, I mean three years ago, you could get a let for your efforts if the ball hit the net on a pickleball serve, but the golden era is no more. In this post, I’ll explain what the “let rule” was and how the changes impacted the way we play pickleball in 2024.
Table of Contents
What is the “Let” Rule?
A “let” occurs when a pickleball serve hits the net and still lands within the correct diagonal service court. In this case, the serve is not considered a fault, and the server gets another attempt. There’s no limit to the number of “let” serves allowed.
Watch: How the let serve worked before 2021.
However, USA Pickleball (USAPA) abolished the rule in 2021 and simplified the outcome. These days, play continues when the ball lands on the right service court as if nothing happened, but it’s a fault if it lands in the incorrect service court.
Read More: How Does Scoring Work In Pickleball
Important Notes:
- If the “let” serve hits your opponent’s partner before bouncing, it’s a replay. This ensures fair play for the receiving team.
- Remember, the “let” rule only applies to serves. During regular play, any ball hitting the net is considered out.
Changes to the “Let” Rule :
Previously, a “let” serve could land anywhere in the service court. Now, it must land within the designated area. This adds strategic elements for servers who may try to use “net” serves deliberately, because a wayward serve leads to a fault, speaking of which, lets dive into what constitutes a fault.
What Constitutes a Fault?
If a pickleball serve hits the net and lands:
- Outside the service court: This results in a point for the receiving team.
- On the non-volley zone line: This is also a fault.
- Your opponent(s) before bouncing: This automatically gives the point to your opponent(s).
Read More Informative Reviews: How To Play A Dink Shot
Verdict: Can A Pickleball Serve Hit The Net
Understanding the “let” rule is no longer significant after USAPA changed the rule in 2021. Now, your each serve counts, and it better land on the right side of the service court, otherwise it’s a fault. So, grab your paddle, practice your serves, and embrace the ever changing pickleball rules to compliment your pickleball skills!
If you are still learning the intricacies of pickleballl rules, you need to read more guides like our “let serve” guide above. Join our free community to receive weekly pickleball tips and product reviews.
