Welcome to the exciting world of pickleball! Whether you’ve just picked up your first paddle or are still pickle-curious, learning how to keep score is an essential step to enjoying the game and improving your skills. At JOOLA, we’re here to guide you through the basics of scoring, answer frequently asked questions, and share tips that will elevate your pickleball game.
We’ll break down everything from how points are scored to common rules and mistakes. By the end, you’ll be ready to call the score with ease and focus on elevating your game.
How Are Points Scored in Pickleball?
In pickleball, the unique scoring system sets the tone for the game. Unlike Tennis some other racket sports, only the serving team can score points. This means your goal when defending is not just to return the ball but also to regain the serve so your team can score.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Scoring Rules: A point is awarded to the serving team when the opposing team commits a fault. Faults include hitting the ball out of bounds, failing to clear the net, or stepping into the non-volley zone during a volley.
- Game Format: Games are typically played to 11 points, and you must win by at least 2 points. In tournament play, games may extend to 15 or 21 points.
How to Keep Score in Pickleball for Beginners
Doubles Scoring Simplified
Doubles games are the most common format in pickleball, but the scoring system can feel tricky at first. The score is called in three parts:
- Serving Team’s Score: The number of points the serving team has earned.
- Receiving Team’s Score: The number of points the opposing team has earned.
- Server Number: Indicates whether it’s the first or second server on the serving team.
For example:
- If the score is 4-3-2, it means:
- The serving team has 4 points.
- The receiving team has 3 points.
- It’s the second server’s turn.
Important Note: At the start of the game, the first serving team begins with just one server (called the “side-out rule”), so the score might look like 0-0-2 after the first fault.
Singles Scoring
Scoring in singles is much simpler than doubles. The score is called in two parts:
- Server’s Score
- Receiver’s Score
For example, if the server’s score is 5 and the receiver’s score is 3, the server will call “5-3” before serving.
Key Beginner Tips for Keeping Score
- Announce the Score Clearly: Always call the score loudly and clearly before each serve to avoid confusion.
- Practice During Casual Play: Treat every friendly match as an opportunity to practice tracking and calling the score.
- Focus on Server Rotation: In doubles, keep track of who’s serving and ensure proper rotation to avoid penalties.
Common Scoring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Not Calling the Score: Forgetting to announce the score can lead to disputes. Make it a habit to call the score before every serve.
- Confusing the Server Number: In doubles, beginners often lose track of whether they are the first or second server. Use visual or verbal reminders to help.
- Forgetting the Side-Out Rule: At the start of a game, only one player serves for the initial side-out, which can trip up new players. Ensure the first serve of the game starts off at 0-0-2 from the right-side player.
What Is the 10-Second Rule in Pickleball?
The 10-second rule is a key part of pickleball scoring. Once the score is announced, the server has 10 seconds to serve the ball. If the serve isn’t executed within this time, it results in a fault and loss of serve.
To avoid penalties, have a consistent serving routine and stay focused during gameplay.
Why Mastering Scoring Matters
For beginners, understanding how to keep score is more than just a technicality—it’s a gateway to enjoying pickleball to its fullest. When you’re confident in tracking points, you can focus on developing your skills and strategy.
Quick Scoring Recap
To make things easier, here’s a quick recap of key pickleball scoring points:
- Only the serving team can score points.
- Doubles scoring uses three numbers: Serving Team’s Score - Receiving Team’s Score - Server Number.
- Games are played to 11 points, with a 2-point lead required to win.
- Announce the score before every serve to keep the game flowing.
- Practice makes perfect—incorporate scoring drills into your regular games to build confidence.
At JOOLA Australia, we’re here to help you play better, score smarter, and enjoy every moment on the court. For more tips, check out our blog or shop the latest pickleball gear to take your game to the next level.
