How is pickleball scored?

Points are scored only by the serving team. Games are normally played to 11, win by 2. Tournament games may go to 15 or 21, also win by 2. In doubles the score is called as three numbers — server's score, receiver's score, server number (1 or 2).

What is the serve rule in pickleball?

The serve must be underhand and made with paddle contact below the server's waist. At least one foot must be behind the baseline; neither foot may touch the baseline or court until after the ball is struck. The serve goes diagonally crosscourt.

What is the double bounce rule?

Also called the two-bounce rule: after the serve, the receiving team must let the ball bounce before returning it, and the serving team must let the return bounce before hitting it. Only after both teams have let it bounce once may either team volley.

What is the kitchen in pickleball?

The kitchen is the non-volley zone — the 7-foot area on each side of the net. You cannot volley (hit out of the air) while standing in the kitchen, and you can't fall into it after a volley. You may stand in the kitchen at any other time, including to hit a ball that has already bounced.

What counts as a fault in pickleball?

Common faults include: serving out of the diagonal court, hitting the ball into the net, volleying before each side has let one bounce, hitting the ball out of bounds, volleying from the kitchen, letting the ball bounce twice on your side, and touching the net or net post during play.

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Rules & Scoring

While pickleball is easy to learn, understanding the official rules and scoring system is essential for fair and competitive play.

The 5 Golden Rules

The ball must stay inbounds.
There should be one bounce per side (Double Bounce Rule).
You must serve at the baseline.
The serve can't land in the no-volley zone (kitchen).
The game ends at 11, 15, or 21 points.

Detailed Rules Breakdown

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Rules & Scoring

The 5 Golden Rules

Detailed Rules Breakdown

Scoring System

The Serve

Double Bounce Rule

Non-Volley Zone ("The Kitchen")

Common Faults