Pickleball’s Spin Serve Returns: The spin serve is back in competitive pickleball. After a three-year ban, the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball have reinstated the chainsaw serve for professional and amateur play. The new rule will take effect on September 1, 2025, after the conclusion of the MLP season. The announcement was made by PPA Tour founder Connor Pardoe.
“It’s been a hard decision to make, but it’s been a long time since 2022. I think it’s important that we reintroduce the spin serve to pickleball. Everyone wants to see athleticism. They want to see players doing things that are hard. I think it’s just time to bring it back.” – (Connor Pardoe)
A Controversial Decision
Not all players are pleased with the change. Some believe it could negatively impact the game. One player expressed mixed emotions about the ruling.
“I just saw the spin serve is now legal… I’m also a little upset because I don’t necessarily think the game should go in that direction.” – (player)
Others voiced concerns about fairness.
“So Zane can have his serve back, but I can’t serve at a 46-degree angle? I’m worried, I’m angry, I’m scared, I’m frightened.” – (player)
Another worried about the learning curve, jokingly adding,
“I’m going to have to hire Zane for $750 an hour to teach me how to do a spin serve, and I can’t afford that.” – (player)
Impact on Amateur Play
The rule change also affects amateur players in PPA events.
“Now that the spin serve is legal at the PPA amateur level as well, we’ve got to talk about what this means for The Average Joe’s and the sub-Average Joe’s like me. This simplifies the rulebook… Now I know that serve was legal.” – (player)
Some see the serve as a game-changer.
“If you weren’t already going big on your serve, you may have been at a disadvantage. That is even more the case now.” – (player)
Others believe it could act as an equalizer, allowing players to win rallies without extended volleys.
“If you want to win, you better spin.” – (player)
Looking Ahead
With the new rule set to take effect later this year, players now have time to prepare. Supporters see it as an opportunity to make the game more exciting, while critics fear it could lead to shorter rallies and increased injuries. Navratil encouraged discussion on the topic, asking fans,
“Should the spin serve be legal? Should the spin serve be illegal? What do you think of this new rule change?” – (Navratil)
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Spin Serve Returns
The spin serve is returning to competitive pickleball after a three-year ban. The PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball will reinstate the chainsaw serve starting September 1, 2025. While some players welcome the rule change as a boost to athleticism, others fear it could disrupt the game. The decision affects professional and amateur play, sparking debate over fairness, strategy, and the future of the sport.
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