Federal Trade Probe Targets Pickleball Paddle Patents
Published Date: 6/8/2026
Notice
Summary
Sport Squad, Inc. (aka JOOLA) has asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate certain pickleball paddles that might be breaking their patents. If the claim is true, some paddles could be blocked from being sold or imported into the U.S., which could shake up the pickleball market soon. This investigation started in June 2026 and could lead to new rules stopping some paddle sales, affecting players and sellers alike.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
ITC Investigation Could Block Paddle Sales
The U.S. International Trade Commission instituted an investigation on June 4, 2026 into certain pickleball paddles that Sport Squad, Inc. (JOOLA) alleges infringe U.S. Patent Nos. 12,465,826 and 12,357,891 (claims 1-16 and 18-20 of the '826 patent and claims 1-29 of the '891 patent). If the Commission finds a violation, it may issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders that could stop the importation or sale of the accused paddles in the United States.
Respondents Must Reply Within 20 Days
Named respondents must submit responses in accordance with the Commission's rules, and such responses will be considered if received not later than 20 days after the date of service of the amended complaint and notice of investigation. The notice states that failure to file a timely response may be deemed a waiver and could lead the administrative law judge and the Commission to enter findings and issue an exclusion order or cease and desist order without further notice.
Which Paddles Are Under Investigation
The investigation covers the plain-language category defined as "pickleball paddles with a core, comprised of foam or other material, and various filler material(s)." This definition sets the scope of which paddles the Commission is examining for alleged patent infringement.
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