# Can a player or server touch the net during a live rally? | 2026 Pickleball Rules | MYOPL

Source: https://myopl.net/learn/pickleball-rules/can-you-touch-the-net-during-a-rally/
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Public reference excerpt. Consult the source page for complete context.

2026 pickleball rule answer

Can a player or server touch the net during a live rally?

No. If a player, including the server, or something the player wears or carries touches the net or its support system while the ball is live, that player commits a fault. Contact after the ball is dead is a different situation.

The rule concerns player contact with the net, not a served ball brushing the net. Determine whether the ball was still live at the instant of contact; the server has no special exemption.

Published by

MYOPL Rules Desk

Originally published

September 23, 2026

Product review

Checked against the validated 2026 package, revision 5

Last updated

2026-09-23

Quick ruling

No. If a player, including the server, or something the player wears or carries touches the net or its support system while the ball is live, that player commits a fault. Contact after the ball is dead is a different situation.

The rule concerns player contact with the net, not a served ball brushing the net. Determine whether the ball was still live at the instant of contact; the server has no special exemption.

Rules cited

Rule 13.G

Rule 13.G.1

Rule 9.B.1

Frequently asked questions

Can a player or server touch the net during a live rally?
No. If a player, including the server, or something the player wears or carries touches the net or its support system while the ball is live, that player commits a fault. Contact after the ball is dead is a different situation.
Is it a fault if the server touches the net?
No. If a player, including the server, or something the player wears or carries touches the net or its support system while the ball is live, that player commits a fault. Contact after the ball is dead is a different situation.
Can my paddle touch the net during play?
No. If a player, including the server, or something the player wears or carries touches the net or its support system while the ball is live, that player commits a fault. Contact after the ball is dead is a different situation.

Sources and product references

USA Pickleball official rules — The governing source controls sanctioned play.

MYOPL validated question coverage — Question examples and resolver acceptance coverage.