The Around-The-Net, or ATP, shot in pickleball may seem illegal but is a perfectly legal shot. USA Pickleball referee Maddie Toren explains the official rules of the pickleball ATP (Rule 11.M.).
A player may return the ball around the outside of the net post (Rule 11.M.).
The ball does not need to travel back over the net (Rule 11.M.1.).
There is no restriction on the height of the return, meaning a player May return the ball around the net post below the height of the net (Rule 11.M.2.).
A player is allowed to go around the net post and cross the imaginary extension line of the net after hitting the ball, as long as the player or any item he or she is wearing or carrying does not touch the opponent's court (Rule 11.L.3.).
If the player goes around the net post and crosses the imaginary extension line of the net — but does not make contact with the ball — a fault will be declared (Rule 11.L.3.).
To see the ATP shot in action, click here.
If you would like to learn more details about these rules refer to the official rulebook at USAPickleball.org.
Maddie Toren is a pro pickleball official and the first-ever teen-certified referee. This is Episode 9 of “10 Rules All Beginner Pickleball Players Should Know: Part 1.”