The Rules of Pickleball: A Comprehensive Guide

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, known for its accessibility and fun, competitive nature. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, the game is played on a smaller court with a distinctive paddle and perforated ball. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the court, understanding the rules is key to enjoying the game fully. Here’s everything you need to know about the rules of pickleball.

The Basics of Pickleball

Pickleball can be played as singles (one player per side) or doubles (two players per side). The game takes place on a court that measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, with a 7-foot non-volley zone (known as the “kitchen”) on either side of the net.

The objective is simple: score points by hitting the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court in a way that they cannot return it.

Scoring

• Points Are Scored by the Serving Team: Only the team that is serving can score points.

• Games Are Played to 11 Points: However, a team must win by at least two points. Competitive matches may go to 15 or 21 points.

• Calling the Score: Before serving, the score is called in the following order: server’s score, receiver’s score, and server number (1 or 2 in doubles).

The Serve

• Underhand Serve: The serve must be performed underhand, with the paddle making contact with the ball below the waist.

• Behind the Baseline: The server must stand behind the baseline and within the imaginary extensions of the sideline and centerline.

• Cross-Court Serve: The ball must land diagonally in the opponent’s service area.

• Let Serve: If the serve hits the net and lands in the correct service area, it’s called a let serve and play continues. If the serve hits the net and lands outside of the correct service area, it’s a fault. 

   

Double-Bounce Rule

To promote longer rallies and fair play, the double-bounce rule is key:

• The receiving team must let the ball bounce once before returning it during the first serve.

• The serving team must also let the ball bounce once before playing the return.

• After these two bounces, the ball can be played either in the air or off the bounce.

Non-Volley Zone (The Kitchen)

The 7-foot non-volley zone on both sides of the net adds a strategic layer to the game:

• Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing inside the kitchen.

• Players can enter the kitchen to play a ball that has bounced but must exit before volleying again.

Faults

A fault results in the end of the rally. Common faults include:

• Serving out of bounds.

• Failing to clear the net.

• Volleying in the kitchen.

• Double-bouncing the ball on one side.

• Hitting the ball out of bounds.

Strategy and Sportsmanship

While the rules of pickleball ensure fairness, the spirit of the game emphasizes sportsmanship. Players are expected to call lines honestly, keep score accurately, and maintain a friendly attitude on the court.

Get on the Court!

Now that you know the rules, it’s time to grab a paddle and hit the court. Whether you’re playing for fun or looking to compete, pickleball offers a unique blend of challenge and excitement for players of all ages. See you on the court!