What's the difference between a verbal warning, a technical warning and a technical foul?
Rule- USA
- USA Pickleball
- Sanctioned tournaments
- Tournament play
- All ages
- 2026 rules
- Referees
| Penalty | Used for | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Verbal warning | Minor unsportsmanlike behavior; only one per side per match | Non-punitive caution |
| Technical warning | Minor unsportsmanlike behavior: objectionable language at a person, any audible or visible profanity, aggressive arguing, ball abuse that doesn't endanger anyone, delay of game, excessive line-call appeals, unauthorized coaching (Rule 22.B) | No point lost, no server change (22.C) |
| Technical foul | Extreme behavior: reckless paddle or ball abuse that puts someone at risk, extremely objectionable language, threats, or a second technical warning (Rule 22.D) | One point deducted from the offender, or one point added to the opponent if the offender has 0; no server change (22.E) |
- Don't stop play to assess a penalty; apply it after the rally, with a brief explanation (Rules 22.A.1, 22.C, 22.E).
- After a point adjustment, the affected side moves to the correct positions for its new score. A deduction that produces a game-winning score applies regardless of who was serving.
- You can penalize any time the players are in the vicinity of the court, including before the match (Rule 22.A).
Added 21 Oct 2026