It’s a problem that plagues all pickleball players, from the amateurs to the pros. 

How often should you tap paddles with your doubles partner? 

There’s no universal code of conduct when it comes to paddle tapping, of course, but it has become an integral part of America's fastest-growing sport that merits discussion.

It’s an unspoken rule that you should tap paddles after a game. Win or lose, players meet at the net as a sign of good sportsmanship. It’s similar to hockey players on opposing teams shaking hands following a hard-fought playoff series.

If you don’t tap paddles, it’s a pretty negative look, right? You just look like a sore loser. 

If tapping paddles at the conclusion of a game is basically a given, how about after a rally?

Some duos tap paddles after every point, no matter the outcome. It helps partners encourage each other, maintain focus, or simply celebrate a good shot. 

Other tandems don’t tap paddles at all since they’re more verbal encouragement-wise. 

So, what’s the protocol on the amateur court? 

There are certain partners I don’t tap paddles with between points because they don’t reach out to tap paddles with me. I’m not making the first move. After all, some players just don’t like tapping paddles between points, so play it safe and match them in this department.

Some people have polarizing opinions on the subject. Either they love to tap paddles between points, or they find it extremely annoying.

It's a hot topic on the Pickleball Facebook Forum.

“I can’t stand tapping paddles. Once at the end of the game, that’s it,” stated Don Wesson. 

“I always say 'Good shot!' and tap paddles. It’s being positive,” wrote Beth Koehler Spiroff. 

“I prefer not to tap paddles, only tap after a win,” said David Nocol.

“I’m a paddle tapper after every point. Good or bad – I think there’s energy in it,” wrote Daczar Erod.

At the pro level, this kind of paddle tapping appears to be the most common. 

However, some players are so aggressive with their paddle taps that you’re worried they’re going to break your paddle. That's way too much energy for me. 

“Try a ghost tap instead. No need to make actual contact,” suggested Andrew Craton.

Or, take inspiration from pros who hold their paddle out so their teammate can simply hit their hand on it. 

“I tap paddles on really good points. Not every point,” said Marilyn Haines.

That seems to be the best strategy when it comes to tapping paddles between points, especially if you don’t know your partner well. It’s best to play it cool.

If it’s an intense back-and-forth rally that ends in a sweet shot right down the middle – tap paddles. Celebrate and encourage your teammate. But, don’t go too far and hit their paddle with such vigor that you crack it. Balance is key. 

Do you tap paddles after rallies? Or just after the game is over? Let us know on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).