Pickleball Ricochets off the Net Post and Goes In

This post has been updated in 2026 according to the USA Pickleball Official Rulebook (2026).

Here’s the Scenario. You Make the Call.

You hit a groundstroke and the ball ricochets off the net post and goes in and is not returned. What’s the call?

It doesn’t happen frequently on the pickleball courts — but when it does, it usually sparks confusion. You attempt an around-the-post shot — or perhaps it’s just an errant shot — and the ball ricochets off the net post and goes in!  You celebrate. Your opponents, on the other hand, shake their heads in total disbelief at your apparent “good fortune.” Before conceding the rally, however, they ask to see the applicable rule in the Pickleball Official Tournament Rulebook.

Luckily for your opponents — but unfortunately for you — you have the rulebook handy, and as you peruse through the pages, you come to the definition of a permanent object (which includes the net post) and Rule #10.C.4 in the USA Pickleball Official Rulebook.

USA Pickleball Official Rulebook

Section 2 – Definitions

Permanent Object. Any object on, above, or near the court that can interfere with play. Examples include, but are not limited to ceilings, walls, fencing, lighting fixtures, net posts (including connected wheels, arms, and legs). Net cable or rope on top of the net post, and other net support construction. Stands and seats for spectators, the referee, line judges, spectators when in their recognized positions,and all other objects around and above the court.

Rule #10.C.4

Fault – Ball Hits Permanent Object Before Landing. When a player hits a ball that contacts a permanent object before bouncing on the court, it is a fault against that player.

Related Articles

For more information on Miscellaneous Rules, check out the articles below:

• Ball Comes Back Over the Net
• Ball Hit Between Net & Net Post
• Ball Hits You
• Ball is Called Out Before it Bounces and Lands In
• Pickleball Faults
• You Call Ball Out, Partner Calls It In

For information on all of the Pickleball Rules, check out our complete guide.

Final Thoughts

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