Pickleball is a fast-growing game similar to tennis and ping pong. Every game has some rules, so no wonder pickleball also has some key points. Keeping them in mind will help you play the game without any errors.
As this game is getting popular, tournaments are played around the world. So, let’s learn all those rules that would help you get involved in this game.
Rules of Pickleball
However, there is some slight difference in points when playing games such as doubles. The organizers will introduce the points rule. The most common gear you need to play this game is paddles and a ball. If you’re just getting started, check out our guide on the best pickleball paddles to choose the right one for your game.
So, let’s discuss the rules you need to know to understand what is pickleball is and how to play it in America.
1- Toss to Decide Server
The first ever rule of pickleball is toss, and just like any other game, pickleball has no exception. So, the team who won the toss will be given a chance to serve. Moreover, the most interesting rule of pickleball is that only the serving team can earn a score.
2- Ten Second Rule
The ten-second rule in pickleball states that if a point is given to a team, they have ten seconds to make a serve. If a team fails to do so in ten seconds, it will be declared a fault.
3- Serving Rule
While serving, the ball must be dropped by one hand and hit with the other hand below the waist without bouncing in the server court. On the other side, the ball must bounce once before being hit by the opponent. One thing to remember here is that the ball should pass the non-volley line in the opposite court before it bounces.
The ball can only be served underhand, whether by the serving team or non-serving. In case of any violation of key pickleball points, the ball will be handed over to the other server or the other team. When any rule breaks, it is commonly known as a “fault by the server.”
4- Sequence of Serving
The serving team will serve the ball from the right end. If they earn a point during service or win a rally, the same server will serve from the left. In short, if the serving team wins a point, the same server continues from the opposite end.
5- Earning of Points by Non-Server
A non-serving team has to win a rally to earn the right to serve and then score. If they win a rally, the ball is passed to the second server. If they win again, the ball is passed to the non-serving team, which will now serve from the right side. This cycle continues until the game ends.
6- Serve Landing Areas
Any serve from the right side of the server’s court must land in the opponent’s right service area—and the same applies for the left side.
7- No Volley Rule
The net has two 7-foot no-volley zones, commonly called “kitchens.” Players cannot strike the ball from within this kitchen area. Any contact inside this zone during a volley is considered a fault.
8- Pickleball Court Rule
The court has dimensions of 44 feet by 20 feet with specific baselines and two 7-foot non-volley lines on either side. Hitting outside these lines is not allowed, and entering the non-volley zone during a hit is also a violation.
To improve your gameplay and ensure fairness, understanding these rules is crucial. And if you’re looking for quality gear, explore the top pickleball paddles available here.
9- Double Bouncing
This unique rule states that:
- The returner must let the ball bounce once before hitting.
- The ball must then bounce once on the serving team’s side before it is hit back.
Following these rules ensures a fair rally.
10- Second Bounce
Unlike the double bounce rule, this one states that the ball cannot bounce twice on the same side. If it does, it’s a fault. This rule also allows servers to legally hit the ball from the kitchen if the ball has bounced.
Note: This rule does not apply to wheelchair players—they are allowed to hit after a double bounce.
11- Inbound Rule
If the ball lands inside the allowed area, it is considered inbound. Even if it touches the boundary line or hits a part of the net within bounds, the ball remains in play.
12- Out of Bound
The ball must land in the 20-foot by 22-foot legal area of the non-serving team. This rule ensures precision and challenges players to control their shots near the edges.
13- Calculation of Scores
To win the game, a team must lead by two points. Most games are played to 11 points, but depending on the tournament rules, the game may be up to 11, 15, or 21.
Bottom Line for Rules of Pickleball
So, in a nutshell, the pickleball rules process starts with the toss, continues through serving, volley, bouncing, and ends with score calculation.
1. Is pickleball easy to learn for beginners?
Yes! Pickleball is beginner-friendly due to its simple rules and smaller court. With some practice, you can learn the basics and enjoy competitive matches.
2. Can I volley from the kitchen zone?
No, volleying (hitting the ball before it bounces) from the kitchen zone is not allowed. Doing so results in a fault.
3. What happens if the ball hits the net but still lands in?
If the ball hits the net on a serve and lands in the correct service box, it is replayed. During rallies, if the ball hits the net and still lands in bounds, it is in play.
4. Do both players get to serve in doubles?
Yes. In doubles, both players on the team get a chance to serve before the serve is passed to the other team, except for the first serve of the game.
