You contact the lowest-numbered ball first, send another ball into a pocket and celebrate. In ten-ball, that description is incomplete. Was the pocketed ball the one you called, and did it enter the intended pocket?
The WPA Rules of Play effective 15 September 2025 use called shots in ten-ball, apart from the break. Section 6 should be read alongside the general call-shot provisions. Local leagues can adopt different rules, so establish the version before the first rack.
Separate contact from the called result
The cue ball must first contact the lowest-numbered object ball remaining. That requirement does not mean the lowest ball must always be the one pocketed. A legal combination can involve another called ball, provided the other requirements are met.
Calling the shot identifies the intended ball and pocket. It is not a running commentary on every cushion, kiss or incidental contact. When a shot is not obvious, communicate clearly before playing rather than trying to establish your intention after the balls stop.
Under these WPA rules, if an object ball is pocketed but the called shot is not made, without a foul, the opponent chooses who plays next. Do not automatically treat every unexpected pot as either a foul or a continuation.
Give the ten its own check
In this rules edition, the winning ten-ball must be legally pocketed on a called shot when it is the only object ball left. A ten pocketed earlier is spotted. That is a particularly important detail for players remembering another edition or a house variation.
For practice, set up a simple combination and say the ball and pocket aloud before each attempt. Afterward, describe the outcome in separate parts: first contact, called result and any foul. This creates a useful habit for resolving close situations without arguing over a vague claim that the shot “went in.” Keep the event’s actual rules available for unusual cases such as push-outs or balls leaving the table.