Pickleball is a fast-growing sport enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels.
One aspect that can confuse beginners is the unique pickleball scoring rules and system in doubles play, which is different from other racquet sports.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to score in pickleball doubles, breaking down the rules, strategies, and important tips to help you master the scoring system.
Basic Overview of Pickleball Scoring Rules
In pickleball, doubles matches are usually played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least 2 points.
Only the serving team can score points, and each team gets two chances to serve before the serve changes to the other team, except for the first serve of the third number of the game.
Here are the key elements of scoring in pickleball doubles:
Game is played to 11 points (some tournaments may go to 15 or 21 points).
You must win by at least 2 points.
Only the serving team can score points.
Each team has two serves per turn, except for the first serve of the game.
With these basics in mind, let’s dive deeper into how the scoring system works and how you can keep track of your score during a match.
The Three-Number Scoring System
In doubles pickleball, the scoring system uses three numbers: the serving team’s score, the receiving team’s score, and the server number.
Every time a team serves, the score is announced with three numbers, which represent:
The serving team’s score.
The receiving team’s score.
Whether the server is the first or second server for the serving team in that rotation.
For example, if the score is announced as “5-3-2,” it means:
The serving team has 5 points.
The receiving team has 3 points.
The server is the second server on the serving team.
Let’s break down what this looks like in play:
Example Scenario:
If Team A is serving and the score is “6-4-1,” it means:
Team A has 6 points.
Team B (the receiving team) has 4 points.
The server is the first server (Player 1) from Team A.
If the first server from Team A loses their serve, the second player (Player 2) on Team A takes over serving, and the score becomes “6-4-2.”
If Player 2 also loses their serve, the serve is handed over to Team B, and Team B begins their serve sequence. The score remains “6-4,” but now Team B serves, and Player 1 on Team B is the first server.
How Serving Works for the Serving Team in Pickleball Doubles
Serving is a key element of scoring in pickleball, and understanding the serving rules is critical to keeping track of the score. Here’s a breakdown of the serving rules in doubles and singles pickleball below:
1. First Serve of the Game
In the very first service of the game, only one player from correct side of the serving team serves.
After they lose their serve, the ball is handed over to the other team, and both players on that team get to serve before the ball switches back.
This is an exception to the usual two-serve rule, and it ensures that both teams have an equal chance at the start of the game.
2. Subsequent Serves
After the first serve of the serving team loses the game, both players on the serving team get a chance to serve. The first server serves until they lose a rally, and then the second server takes over.
If the second server also loses their serve, the serve goes to the opposing team, and their first server takes the next serve.
Example Scenario:
Let’s say the team’s score is “4-2-1.” This means Team A has 4 points, Team B has 2 points, and Player 1 from Team A is serving. The team’s score affects player positioning, with players standing on the right or left side of the court based on whether the score is even or odd.
If Player 1 loses the rally, Player 2 will serve next, and the score will become “4-2-2.” If Player 2 loses the serve, the ball is then left service court and handed to Team B, and they begin serving, with the score announced as “2-4-1.”
This pattern of alternating between two servers per team continues throughout the game, except for the first serve of correct server in the game.
How to Win Points in Pickleball Doubles
In pickleball, only the serving team wins and can score points.
If the receiving team wins a rally, they do not score; instead, they earn the opportunity to serve and try to win points during their service turn.
Scoring Points
Points are won when the opposing team commits a fault. Common faults include:
Hitting the ball out of bounds.
Failing to clear the net.
Letting the ball bounce twice on their side of the court.
Stepping into the non-volley zone (kitchen) and volleying the ball.
Rally Win but No Point
If the receiving team wins the rally, they do not score a point.
Instead, they simply get the right to call the score and serve. Remember, only the serving team can add to their score.
Positioning and Rotation in Doubles Play
One of the unique aspects of pickleball scoring is how positioning and rotation on the court work.
Proper positioning during serves and returns is critical for avoiding faults and making the most of your turn to serve.
1. Serving Position
When serving, the server stands behind the baseline and serves diagonally to the opponent’s service area. After the serve, players do not switch sides unless a point is scored.
The server continues serving from alternating sides of the court after each successful point until they lose the serve.
2. Receiving Position
The receiving team also needs to position themselves correctly. The player receiving the serve must stand in the proper service area, ready to return the ball.
The partner of the receiver stands behind the baseline or service court, away from the kitchen, to avoid any faults.
3. Switching Sides
Players switch sides of the pickleball court only after the serving team scores a point.
This is different from sports like tennis, where players switch sides after every serve. In pickleball, teams remain in the same position during a service sequence until they score.
Common Faults That Affect Scoring
Understanding faults is critical to keeping score properly in a pickleball game. Here are some common faults that result in the loss of a serve or point:
Foot Faults: If the server steps on or over the baseline before hitting the ball, it is considered a foot fault, and they lose the serve.
Kitchen Violations: The kitchen, also known as the non-volley zone, is a critical area of the court. Players cannot hit volleys while standing in the kitchen or stepping on the kitchen line.
Out of Bounds: If the ball is hit outside the boundaries of the court, it results in a fault and the other team wins the rally.
Special Scenarios in Pickleball Doubles Scoring
Several unique rules and scenarios can arise during a doubles match, which can affect scoring and strategy. Here are a few of the most important ones:
1. The Side-Out
When both players on a serving team lose their serve, it is called a “side-out,” and the serve switches to the opposing team.
This term is important because it marks the end of the serving team’s opportunity to score and gives the receiving team a chance to serve and score points.
2. The First Serve Exception
As mentioned earlier, in the very first serve of the game, only one player from serving team commits serves before the serve is handed over to the opposing team.
After this initial serve, both players on each team get a chance to serve.
3. Winning the Game
In pickleball, the game is usually played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least 2 points.
For example, play pickleball, if the score is 10-10, the game continues until one team wins by 2 points, such as 12-10 or 13-11.
Strategies for Scoring in Pickleball Doubles
To improve how to score pickleball doubles and your chances of scoring in doubles pickleball, you need more than just knowledge of the rules—you need a strategy. Here are some strategies that can help you win more points:
1. Serve with Intention
A well-placed serve can immediately put pressure on your opponents. Aim for deep serves that land close to the baseline to force a difficult return.
Varying the speed and spin of your serve can also keep your opponents guessing.
2. Control the Kitchen Line
Controlling the kitchen line is one of the most effective ways to dominate a pickleball match.
By positioning yourself near the kitchen, you can quickly volley the ball and apply pressure on your opponents, forcing them to make mistakes. Moving up to the kitchen line immediately after the serve or return is a key part of pickleball strategy.
3. Communicate with Your Partner
Good communication is essential in doubles pickleball. Let your partner know when you plan to take a shot or switch sides.
Clear communication helps avoid confusion and ensures that you and your partner are working as a team.
4. Target Weaknesses
During the game, observe your opponents and look for weaknesses in their play.
If one player struggles with a particular shot, such as low balls or backhands, focus your attacks on that weakness to increase your chances of winning points.
5. Play with Patience
Pickleball is a game of patience, especially when playing doubles.
Rather than trying to win every point with a risky shot, focus on keeping the ball in play and waiting for your opponents to make a mistake.
Conclusion
Understanding how to score in doubles pickleball is essential to enjoying and succeeding in the game.
The three-number scoring system may seem complex at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
By learning the various scoring rules well, positioning yourself correctly, and developing strong strategies, you can improve your chances of scoring points and winning matches.
Remember, doubles pickleball scoring is not just about power—it’s about strategy, communication, and control. Whether you’re serving, receiving, or rallying, focus on positioning, patience, and teamwork to dominate the court.
With these skills in hand, you’ll soon be scoring points and mastering the exciting world of doubles pickleball!