Tips
Feb 11, 2025
Get ready to become a pickleball pro with this comprehensive breakdown of the key rule differences between singles and doubles play. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, understanding these distinctions will revolutionize your game!
1. Serving Rules: A World of Difference
Doubles Serving
Both players on the serving team get a chance to serve
The starting server of each game must serve from the right side only
After the first side-out, both partners serve before losing possession
Players must announce three numbers: server number (1 or 2), serving team's score, receiving team's score
Server alternates positions based on score (right side for even, left for odd)
Singles Serving
Only one serve before side-out occurs
Players announce just two numbers: server's score, receiver's score
Server alternates positions based on score (right side for even, left for odd)
Serving always begins from the right side at 0-0
No partner means no second chance at service!
(Photo Source: https://pickleball.com/news/mlp-serve-rules-explained)
2. Court Dimensions: Size Matters!
Doubles Play
Full court width is used (20 feet)
Even sideline extensions are in play
Players can serve from behind either the left or right service areas
Wider court creates more strategic opportunities for shot placement
Singles Play
Narrower court width (singles sideline is used)
"Wings" or sideline extensions are out of bounds
Court width is reduced to 17 feet
Serving must occur from the proper side based on score
(Photo Source: https://www.stratton.com/things-to-do/activities/pickleball)
3. Scoring Dynamics
Doubles Scoring
Example: "5-3-1"
First number (5): Serving team's score
Second number (3): Receiving team's score
Third number (1): Server number
Singles Scoring
Example: "5-3"
First number (5): Server's score
Second number (3): Receiver's score
(Photo Source: https://thewallpickleball.com/blogs/the-wall-pickleball/mastering-the-scoreboard-how-to-keep-score-in-pickleball)
4. Positioning & Movement Rules
Doubles Play
Both players must stay on their designated sides until after serve
Non-serving partner must stand behind baseline until return of serve
After serve, players can move anywhere on their side
Partner positions can shift after service return (including stacking)
Singles Play
Server and receiver must stay on proper side based on score
After service return, entire court is open for play
Players must cover entire court solo
No restrictions on movement after service return
(Photo Source: https://www.desertsun.com/story/sports/2023/08/12/pickleball-vocabulary-what-the-heck-is-an-erne/70574251007/)
5. Return of Serve Requirements
Doubles Play
Return must be made by designated receiver
Partner cannot return serve even if it's going out
Receivers must stay in proper position until serve is struck
Singles Play
Receiving player must let serve bounce
Can move immediately after serve is struck
Must return serve from appropriate side based on score
More ground to cover during return
(Photo Source: https://thepickler.com/pickleball-blog/pickleball-rules-singles/)
6. Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen) Rules
While the basic kitchen rules remain identical for both formats, their tactical application varies:
Doubles Kitchen Strategy
Four players competing for kitchen control
More volley opportunities
Complex partner coordination required
Quick reactions needed for kitchen defense
Singles Kitchen Strategy
More time to set up dinks
Easier to reset point if out of position
Greater court coverage required
More opportunities for strategic retreats
(Photo Source: https://www.northwell.edu/news/insights/pickleball-injuries-6-safety-tips)
Ready to put these differences into action? Remember, whether you're playing singles or doubles, understanding these distinct rules isn't just about following the rulebook – it's about unlocking new strategies and taking your game to the next level!
Have you noticed how these rule variations create entirely different gameplay experiences? Singles offers an incredible cardio workout with its constant movement, while doubles brings that amazing team dynamic that makes pickleball such a social sport. Both formats are absolutely fantastic – which one are you excited to try first?
