Pickleball: Scoring System Explained – Mastering the Basics

The pickleball scoring system can be a bit confusing at first, especially if you’re new to the game. But once you understand the basics, it’s straightforward and easy to follow. Whether you’re playing in a casual game or a tournament, mastering the pickleball scoring system will help you stay focused on the game and know exactly where you stand in every match.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential pickleball scoring rules, so you can hit the court with confidence.

1. Understanding the Basics

Pickleball is usually played to 11 points, and you must win by 2 points. However, in some cases, games may be played to 15 or 21 points, especially in tournaments. In every case, winning by 2 points remains a requirement.

Only the Serving Team Can Score: One of the most important rules to remember is that only the serving team can score a point. If the receiving team wins the rally, they don’t score but gain the opportunity to serve.
Serving and Sides: Games typically begin with a coin toss or paddle spin to determine who serves first. The serving team starts the game with only one server instead of two. After the first rally, both players from each team will have a chance to serve before the serve returns to the other team.

Pro tip: Pay attention to who is serving and be aware of when the serve changes sides so you can adjust your strategy accordingly.

2. The Two-Serve System

Each team gets two serves per turn (one for each player) unless they are starting the game. Here’s how it works:

First Server: When the first player on a team serves and loses the point, the serve passes to their partner. The team doesn’t lose their serve until both players have served and lost a point.
Second Server: Once the second player loses the point, the serve is given to the opposing team.
Calling the Score: The serving team should call the score before each serve in this order: (1) the server’s score, (2) the opponent’s score, and (3) whether they are the first or second server. For example, if the serving team has 4 points, the receiving team has 2 points, and the first player is serving, the score would be called “4-2-1.”

Pro tip: Be sure to announce the score clearly to avoid confusion and keep the game moving smoothly.

3. Winning the Game

Most games are played to 11 points, and you must win by 2. In some competitive matches, games are extended to 15 or 21 points, but the 2-point margin is always required.

Reaching 11: Once a team reaches 11 points and leads by 2, they win the game. If the score is tied at 10-10 (or another number depending on the game’s point target), play continues until one team has a 2-point lead.
Switching Sides: In tournament play or longer games to 15 or 21 points, teams typically switch sides when one team reaches 8 points or halfway through the match. This ensures fairness in case one side has a disadvantage, such as wind or sun.

Pro tip: If you’re playing a longer match, use the side switch as an opportunity to re-strategize and assess what’s working for your team.

4. Faults and Side-Outs

In pickleball, a fault is any action that stops play because a rule is violated. Here are common faults that result in a side-out (loss of serve):

Hitting the Ball Out of Bounds: If the ball lands outside the court’s boundary lines, it’s considered out of bounds.
Double Bounce Rule Violation: Each team must let the ball bounce once on their side after the serve before hitting it in the air. Failing to follow this rule results in a fault.
Into the Kitchen: Players cannot hit a volley (hitting the ball out of the air) while standing inside the kitchen or even while stepping on the kitchen line. Doing so results in a fault.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on your footwork near the kitchen, as it’s easy to get carried away during intense volleys.

5. Singles Scoring

The scoring system for singles play is similar to doubles, but without the second server. In singles, each player serves until they lose a point, at which time the serve is given to the opponent.

Score Calling in Singles: When calling the score in singles, the server only announces their own score and the opponent’s score, without the third number that is used to designate which server is playing in doubles.

Pro tip: In singles, it’s especially important to focus on stamina and placement since you’ll be covering the entire court by yourself.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the pickleball scoring system is essential for every player. Once you’ve got the rules down, you’ll be able to focus more on strategy, positioning, and enjoying the game. Remember, only the serving team can score, each team gets two servers (in doubles), and games are usually played to 11 points with a 2-point lead required to win.

With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to approach each game with confidence, fully aware of how the scoring works and how to manage the flow of the game. Understanding the rules will make your pickleball experience more enjoyable and give you an edge in competitive play.