Pickleball dispute sparks brawl at Florida country club

Pickleball dispute sparks brawl at Florida country club

During a heated pickleball match at a country club in central Florida, a disagreement over a rule turned into a physical confrontation, authorities reported. The altercation involved a player striking his opponent in the face with a paddle and delivering a punch to the ground before additional participants joined the conflict.

On Sunday, a 63-year-old man was formally charged with two counts of felony battery against someone aged 65 or older. His 51-year-old wife, who also took part in the scuffle in Port Orange, faced a single count of the same offense, as outlined in the arrest affidavit.

According to the affidavit, the players exchanged verbal barbs, and the incident culminated when the 63-year-old man attacked his opponent after the match concluded. He had previously insulted his male rival’s wife, which reportedly ignited the conflict.

The argument began when the pair contested shots taken in the kitchen zone—a specific area on either side of the net. Per the rules, players are permitted to strike the ball only after it lands within the kitchen; otherwise, they must stay outside. The dispute escalated as the men exchanged words, leading to the physical altercation.

Matt Thompson, representing the man, did not reply to an email inquiry for comment. The affidavit noted that up to 20 players were involved in the brawl, highlighting the widespread nature of the event.