Ask a Referee - Timeouts FAQs
Maddie Toren is the youngest certified USA Pickleball referee in history and a leading force behind the scenes of the sport. As Founder & CEO of PKLD Agency, Maddie specializes in managing brand presence and digital strategy for pro pickleball athletes, Major League teams, and top industry brands.
Certified by USA Pickleball and widely recognized for her standout social media work, Maddie blends her passion for officiating with her expertise in digital engagement—helping the biggest names in pickleball connect with fans and grow their influence on and off the court.
Timeouts FAQs
What is the pickleball rule for requesting a timeout during a medical emergency?
A player can request a medical timeout, and play will be paused for up to 15 minutes.
What is the time limit for a pickleball medical timeout?
A medical timeout can last up to 15 minutes.
How many pickleball timeouts are allowed per team in a game to 15 points?
Each team is allowed two timeouts in a game to 15 points.
What is the time limit for each standard timeout in a pickleball match?
Each timeout lasts up to one minute.
What is the rule in pickleball if a player wants to call a timeout during an opponent’s serve?
A timeout cannot be called during an opponent’s serve; it must be called before the server starts their motion.
How long can a standard pickleball timeout last?
A standard timeout can last up to one minute.
What happens if a pickleball player calls a timeout when they have no timeouts remaining?
No penalty will be called if a player calls a timeout when none remain.
What is the maximum number of timeouts allowed per pickleball team in a 21-point game?
Each team is allowed three timeouts in a 21-point game.
Can the server or their partner call a timeout after the pickleball serve has occurred?
No, calling a timeout after the serve has occurred is a fault.
How many timeouts are allowed per team in a pickleball 11-point or 15-point game?
Each team is allowed two timeouts per game.