Nasty Nelson’s Pickleball Controversy: A Nasty Nelson is one of the most surprising shots in pickleball. It happens when a server aims the ball at the non-receiving player on the other side of the court. If the ball hits that player before it bounces, the serving team wins the point. It’s legal, but many players debate if it’s fair.
Pickleball star Mariana Paredes used a Nasty Nelson on match point at the US Open to win gold. In her post-match interview with The Dink, she said, “I saw an opportunity and took it. Nothing wrong with that!” This bold move has sparked discussion in the pickleball community about whether the shot is clever or unsportsmanlike.
What is a Nasty Nelson?
The Nasty Nelson is a serve aimed at the player who is not supposed to return the ball. If that player is hit before the ball bounces, it’s a fault on the receiving team, and the server wins the point. It’s rare, but completely allowed under official pickleball rules.
The shot is named after Tim Nelson, also known as “The Puppet Master.” He became known for using this shot often and even celebrated with a hand motion like a puppeteer. His bold playing style gave the shot its unique name—Nasty Nelson.
Famous Use at the US Open
One of the most famous Nasty Nelsons came during the US Open. Mariana Paredes used the shot at 10-4 match point to win gold. Her bold move caught the crowd’s attention. In her post-game interview with The Dink, Mariana Paredes said, “I saw an opportunity and took it. Nothing wrong with that!”
The shot worked perfectly and gave her team a memorable win. But it also led to questions about when and how players should use this type of serve.
When Do Players Use It?
Players sometimes use a Nasty Nelson during matches. It works best when the non-receiving player is distracted or stands too close to the kitchen line. Since the serve is legal, it can be a smart way to win a point—if timed right.
Some players support the move, saying it’s just another strategy. Others feel it goes against the spirit of fair play. Instead of aiming to hit a distracted player, many players prefer to use skillful spin or placement on their serves.
Should You Use It?
Whether or not to use a Nasty Nelson depends on the player. It’s one of many tools in a pickleball player’s skill set. Just like a third shot drop, Erne, or around-the-post shot, the Nasty Nelson can be useful—or risky.
For those competing in Minor League Pickleball or chasing higher rankings, knowing about the Nasty Nelson is helpful. Even if a player never uses it, understanding how it works can help defend against it.
Why It Still Matters
As pickleball grows, so does the creativity of its players. The Nasty Nelson shows how strategy, timing, and a bit of boldness can change a game. Whether it’s seen as smart or sneaky, this shot keeps fans talking and players alert.
Mariana Paredes’ winning move and Tim Nelson’s original play style remind the pickleball community that anything can happen on the court—even the unexpected.
News in Brief: Nasty Nelson’s Pickleball Controversy
A Nasty Nelson is a legal pickleball serve that hits the non-receiving player to win a point. Mariana Paredes used it to win gold at the US Open. Named after Tim Nelson, the shot remains clever and controversial in the pickleball community.