Pickleball rules: all the essentials in a nutshell
Sequence of serving
In singles, each player is allowed to serve and accumulate points until he makes an error. In case of an even score (e.g. 0, 2, 4...) the serve is executed from the right side and in case of an odd score - from the left side. Each serve is delivered diagonally into the appropriate serving area.
In doubles play, each team is allowed two consecutive serves - one from each player. The serve always starts on the right side of the court. Players continue to serve and win points until they make two consecutive errors. The right of serve then passes to the opposing team.
Starting kick (service)
The pickleball serve is performed underhand - the ball must be hit below waist level. The stroke must be directed diagonally and pass beyond the "kitchen" without touching its line. If the ball touches this line on serve, it is considered an error.
Scoring
The pickleball points are scored only by the team that serves. Matches are usually played in two of three games to 11 points, with a minimum of 2 points advantage required to win. In some official tournaments games can be up to 15 or 21 points.
In singles, the service position is changed according to the score - in case of an even serve is on the right, in case of an odd serve - on the left. In doubles play, the team's first serving player starts on the right side. If the team has an even number of points, it stays on the right, and in the case of an odd number, it moves to the left half.
Rule of two beats
After the initial kick, the ball it must thump once on each sidebefore the players start volleying or kicking from the air. This means: after the serve, a thump into the serving player's box, then a thump back into the serving player's box. Only then the game becomes free. This rule eliminates the serve advantage and encourages longer serves.
Rules for the lines on the course
If the ball touches any of the lines during play, it is considered Inside. The only exception is on serve - if the ball falls on the "kitchen" line, the shot is considered a fault.
The area without the vollet - "the kitchen"
This area is located 2.13 meters from the net on both sides. Players are not allowed to volley while in that area or step into it after a shot. Even just momentum that results in stepping or touching the "kitchen" line is considered an error. Entering is allowed only after the ball has thumped inside. This rule exists to prevent domination with aggressive shots near the net.
Errors in the game
An error is any action that violates the rules - hitting the net, going outside the court, touching the "kitchen" on a volley, incorrect serve, etc. If the error is on the serving team's part, it loses the right to service, and if it is from the welcoming - Servers win a point.
