Rules & How to Play
OpenLadder is self-officiated. These rules keep it fair and fun for everyone.
The basics
- Matches are self-officiated — no referees, no umpires. Just two players and a can of balls.
- Format is best-of-3 sets with a 7-point tiebreak at 6-6. The third set can be replaced with a 10-point match tiebreak.
Arranging a match
- Post a proposal with your preferred time and location — anyone in your ladder can accept it.
- Once a proposal is accepted, both players are committed. Back out only if truly necessary, and give as much notice as possible.
Balls
- Both players should bring a new, unopened can of balls.
- After the match, the winner keeps the new can. The loser takes the opened can.
Reporting scores
- The winner reports the score in the app within 48 hours.
- The loser is automatically confirmed after 48 hours.
- If the score looks wrong, either player can edit it within 24 hours of it being reported.
- For bigger issues, email us at support@playopenladder.com and we'll sort it out.
Points
- Points are awarded automatically when a match is confirmed.
- Default wins (opponent no-show) award reduced points: 15 to the winner, 0 to the loser.
- See the Scoring page for the full formula.
Fair play
- Agree on the score after each set — don't leave it until the end.
- Call lines honestly. When in doubt, the ball is in.
- Be on time. If your opponent is more than 15 minutes late without notice, you may claim a default win.