Zane Navratil Calls Out MLP’s 2025 Rule Changes: Professional pickleball player Zane Navratil shared his concerns about Major League Pickleball’s (MLP) new rule changes for the 2025 season. In a YouTube video titled “MLP’s HUGE Rule Changes for 2025,” Navratil explains why he’s not a fan of several sweeping adjustments, including player eligibility, roster sizes, and scoring systems.
Changes to Player Eligibility and Roster Sizes
One major change in the 2025 season is that only UPA (United Pickleball Association) signed players will be eligible to play in MLP.
Navratil expressed disappointment that this eliminates opportunities for rising players who were previously discovered through MLP’s competitive scouting. As a result, teams that had detailed knowledge of under-the-radar talent may no longer have a competitive advantage.
Additionally, MLP is expanding team rosters from four players to six, with three men and three women. This change addresses issues teams faced when players missed events due to injury or scheduling conflicts.
While Navratil acknowledges the necessity of this change, he questions if there are enough high-level players to fill all six spots on each team. He fears this could create a divide between wealthier teams and those with more limited budgets.
The End of the Loan Rule and Switch to Traditional Scoring
Another significant change is the elimination of the loan rule, which previously allowed players to be loaned from one team to another. Navratil supports this move, stating it helped prevent potential collusion between teams.
However, the most controversial rule change is MLP’s switch from rally scoring to traditional side-out scoring. Under this new system, matches may be shorter and less exciting, according to Navratil.
He argues that rally scoring made each point feel more important and kept the pace of the game faster, which was ideal for players and viewers.
What This Means for the 2025 Season
Navratil’s video has sparked discussions about whether these changes will improve or hinder the sport’s growth. While some agree with his critiques, others believe the adjustments are necessary for long-term development. The 2025 season, starting in April, will be a test for MLP as they balance the needs of players and fans.
As the season approaches, fans and players are eager to see how these rule changes affect the competitive landscape of Major League Pickleball.
News in Brief: Zane Navratil Calls Out MLP’s 2025 Rule Changes
Zane Navratil shared concerns about Major League Pickleball’s (MLP) new 2025 rule changes, including player eligibility, roster sizes, and the switch to traditional scoring.
He criticized the exclusion of non-UPA players and the potential divide caused by expanded rosters. Navratil also questioned the impact of the shift from rally scoring on match excitement, sparking debate ahead of the season.
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