Pickleball Scoring Rules for Beginners

Do you want to conquer the sport of Pickleball but are wondering about how to score? Don't worry! Pickleball scoring rules are very simple and easy to understand. Discover them with PicklePlay.vn so you can confidently participate in matches.

Pickleball Scoring Basics

In doubles pickleball

In doubles pickleball, the score consists of three numbers (for example, 0-0-2). These numbers have the following meanings:

1. First number : The score of the serving team.
2. Second number : Points of the team receiving the ball.
3. Third Number : The person serving the ball, can be either server number 1 or server number 2.

For example, if the score is 10-8-2, it means that the serving team has 10 points, the receiving team has 8 points, and the server is now the number 2 server on the serving team. In doubles pickleball

In singles pickleball

In singles pickleball, the score is only two digits (e.g. 0-0).

1. First number : The score of the person serving.
2. Second number : Points of the person receiving the ball.

There is no third number because each side only gets one serve.

For example, if the score is 10-8, it means the server has 10 points and the receiver has 8 points.

In pickleball, only the serving team can score a point (or if the opposing team commits a technical foul and fails to score). This rule applies to both doubles and singles play. To score a point, the serving team must win the rally.

To win a game of pickleball, you need to be the first team to reach a set number of points. Usually, games are played to 11 points (with a 2-point lead over your opponent). In some tournaments, games can be played to 15 or 21 points, but you still need to be at least 2 points ahead of your opponent to win. In singles pickleball

Calling Points in Pickleball

The score in any pickleball game is only called when both the server and receiver are in position and ready to play. However, if it appears that either player is slowing down the game, the score can be called.

To indicate that you are not ready and do not want the score called, you can do one of two things: (1) raise your racket or arms above your head or (2) turn your back to the net. Note that if you make this signal after the score has been called, it will have no effect. You also may not use this signal to intentionally delay play.

If the server is unable to call the point loud enough for everyone to hear, their partner may call the point in the server's place. However, once a partner has been designated to call the point, they must do so for the remainder of the match.

What happens if the score is wrong in Pickleball?

Sometimes the server or umpire may call the wrong score in a pickleball game. If you notice an incorrect score, anyone on the court has the right to stop and request a correction before the third shot of the round is played.

If play is stopped before the third shot is played, the server or umpire will re-announce the correct score without penalty. However, if you stop after the third shot has been played, you will be considered to have committed a foul and lose the shot. In other words, you must report the incorrect score before the third shot is played.

If play is stopped after a point has been called but the call is correct, the player who stopped play to protest commits a foul and loses the game. This includes any player who claims the point is incorrect, such as saying “Referee, we have 10, not 9.”

Note that this rule about calling a wrong point is more important in tournaments or competitive play than it is in recreational play. In recreational play, players are often more forgiving and move on. However, it is important to understand the exact rules of pickleball to avoid disputes on the court.

So you have mastered the Pickleball scoring rules ! With the above information, you will definitely be more confident when participating in matches. PicklePlay.vn hopes that this article has helped you better understand and have great experiences with this sport.