Nasty Nelson Pickleball Controversy: Mariana Paredes used a surprise serve to win gold at the US Open Pickleball Championships. On match point in Game 3, she hit her opponent at the net with the serve—a rare move known as a “Nasty Nelson”—securing victory and sparking strong reactions online.
A Shocking Ending to a Championship Match
The moment happened with the score at 10-4 in the final game. Mariana Paredes, going for the win, chose not to serve the ball in the usual way. Instead, she aimed straight at the opposing player who was standing too close to the net.
The ball hit the player, ending the point and the match. Mariana Paredes and her partner claimed the gold medal.
Online Reactions Flood In
The video of the final serve quickly spread online. Some people called it “bush league,” suggesting it was unsportsmanlike. Others called it the “best shot ever,” showing support for the bold move. Debates grew as more people watched the clip.
Mariana Paredes Responds
Mariana Paredes shared her side of the story in a comment on The Dink’s Instagram page:
“Hahaha THAT IS ME! And in my defense, they had been targeting my partner all day in that match. I apologized more than once, and sometimes it’s just part of the game. It was the first time I ever ended a game like that, but at that point, I was desperate to finish the match. I saw an opportunity and took it, nothing wrong with that! #nastynelsonqueen” – (Mariana Paredes)
Her comment added context to what many saw as a controversial moment.
What Is a “Nasty Nelson”?
A “Nasty Nelson” happens when the server hits the opposing player with the ball before it crosses the net. The name comes from Tim Nelson, who is often credited with using this play during matches. It’s legal, but not often used—especially on match point.
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What Comes Next
This moment will likely be remembered for a long time. It has already sparked questions about fair play, strategy, and sportsmanship in pickleball. Players and fans may now look at serving—and game-ending plays—in a new way.
Whether people think it was fair or foul, Mariana Paredes’s decision brought attention to a rarely seen tactic on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
News in Brief: Nasty Nelson Pickleball Controversy
Mariana Paredes ended a US Open gold medal match with a rare “Nasty Nelson” serve. The shot hit her opponent at the net and sparked a wave of debate online. Some called it unfair, while others cheered her creativity. Paredes defended her choice and explained her reasoning on Instagram.