When pickleball began to gain traction in local tennis courts and country clubs, I paid little attention. I had known about the game for years, but it never seemed to become widespread before. I assumed there might be minor injuries and the occasional conflict among players. However, I couldn’t have foreseen the seriousness of recent events. Incidents now include players using paddles as weapons and injuries from balls hitting sensitive areas.
Recently, a pickleball match escalated into a confrontation where a paddle was weaponized, injuring a man’s face. Such incidents highlight emerging hazards for players. One unexpected risk involves taking hits to the nipple, an issue raised by Kaitlyn Kerr, a known pickleball player who shares insights as ‘Pickleball Chick’ on social media.
Kerr uploaded a video showing herself receiving a shot to the chest, captioned with a warning: ‘PICKLEBALL IS DANGEROUS FOR NIPPLES.’ In the footage, she stands on the court, paddle lowered, unaware of the impending serve. The server delivers a forceful hit, striking her chest and causing visible discomfort.
This experience isn’t unique to Kerr. Other players have shared their ordeals in the comments, describing a common theme of distress caused by these misdirected balls. Comments include: ‘I almost quit the day I got hit in the nipple’ and ‘I took one straight to the nip this week. Still hurty.’
For those who haven’t faced this predicament, it serves as a precautionary tale. Such episodes are preventable by maintaining vigilance and keeping paddles ready. While banning high serves may seem excessive, players must take care to protect themselves.
The growing popularity of pickleball comes with increased risks. Players are encouraged to stay aware and to safeguard themselves to ensure that they continue enjoying the sport without unwelcome injuries.
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