Serving
The "wait" signal (when you are not ready)
Before the score call starts, you can show you are not ready yet by raising your paddle or hand above your head, or by turning your back to the net.
If you are not ready to receive the serve, let the others know with one of the set signals before the score call starts (6.A). Any player may use these signals (6.A).
The "wait" signals (any one of the three)
- Raise your paddle above your head (6.A.1)
- Raise your free hand (the one without the paddle) above your head (6.A.1)
- Turn your back fully to the net (6.A.1)
The server must not call the score until the opponents are ready (6.B).
Once the call has started
After the score call starts, you can no longer use these signals (except to point out a hinder) (6.A.2). If you want to stop play after that, say so out loud, for example "stop" or "wait" (6.E).
Source and review
- Rulebook
- USA Pickleball Official Rulebook (2026 edition)
- Sections
- 6.A, 6.A.1, 6.A.2, 6.B, 6.E
- Applies to
- USA Pickleball
- Effective
- January 1, 2026
- Last reviewed
- October 10, 2026
How to read the sources: numbers like (8.F.4) are rulebook sections, and links are outside sources. An "Author's note" is the author's personal experience, not an official rule.