based on the World Pool-Billiard Association (WPA) World Standardized Rules (the “official rules of pool”)

Is a “scoop” jump shot a foul, even if there is no miscue or multiple hit?

Yes. Here is the pertinent quote from WPA Rule 2.11:

A scoop shot, in which the cue tip contacts the playing surface and the cue-ball at the same time, and this causes the cue-ball to rise off the cloth, is treated like a miscue. If an unintentional miscue causes the cue-ball to leave the playing surface, including partially or fully jumping over a ball, it is treated like a legal jump shot.

For more info, see: “Miscue and Scoop Non-Fouls” (BD, January, 2026).

Per WPA Rule 3.16c, a miscue is a foul if it is intentional (e.g., if used to purposely jump the CB over an obstacle). See:

The following videos show and explain what happens with various types of illegal “scoop” jump shots:

Here’s an example scoop shot resulting from an elevated draw shot miscue:

Sometimes, the “intent” of a scoop might not be obvious. Here are several good examples:

For many example rule calls along with explanations, see “Rules – Part I: introduction” (BD, August, 2009) and:

Why is an intentional “scoop” jump shot illegal?

For a jump shot to be legal, you must hit the CB from above, causing it to bounce off the table’s slate. A purposeful scoop jump is illegal because it is too easy. It also involves an intentional miscue (which is a foul) and secondary contact and/or the tip hitting the CB while in contact with the table. It can also cause cloth damage if executed forcefully, especially on a table with loose cloth.

Sometimes, the wrong calls are made concerning unintentional miscue scoop shots, even in pro tournaments. See:

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