When do I impose a game forfeit or a match forfeit?
Rule- USA
- USA Pickleball
- Sanctioned tournaments
- Tournament play
- All ages
- 2026 rules
- Referees
Game forfeit (Rule 22.F):
- Any combination of one technical warning and one technical foul, or three technical warnings, in a match
- A player not reporting within 10 minutes after the match is called (Rule 18.F.1), unless the TD grants a delay
The side keeps playing the remaining games. In a one-game match, a game forfeit is a match forfeit.
Match forfeit by the referee (Rule 22.I):
- Ball or paddle abuse that strikes someone or damages facility property
- In a multiple-game match, a player not reporting within 15 minutes after the match is called (Rule 18.F.2)
- A non-compliant or unlisted paddle discovered during the match (Rule 18.A.2)
- Deliberately aggressive physical contact
- A second technical foul, or any technical warning or foul after a conduct-based game forfeit
Forfeited games are recorded as 11-0, 15-0 or 21-0 (Rules 22.H, 22.K). Only the Tournament Director can eject or expel a player; you may recommend it (Rule 17.D.17).
Added 21 Oct 2026