How to Keep Score in Pickleball: A Beginner’s Guide
One of the most important aspects of pickleball—and perhaps the trickiest for beginners—is learning how to keep score. Unlike other racket sports, pickleball has a unique scoring system that can be confusing at first. Whether you’re playing singles or doubles, understanding how to keep score will ensure you’re following the rules and having fun on the court.
This guide simplifies pickleball scoring with clear explanations, examples, and tips to help you master the system and focus on the game.
Basics of Pickleball Scoring
Pickleball is played to 11 points, and players must win by at least 2 points. Points are only scored by the serving team, making the serve a critical part of the game.
Each game consists of three key numbers announced before every serve:
The serving team’s score.
The receiving team’s score.
The server number (1 or 2 in doubles).
For example, if the score is "6-4-2," the serving team has 6 points, the receiving team has 4 points, and the second server on the team is serving.
Doubles Scoring: The 3-Number System
1. Starting the Game
At the beginning of a doubles match, the serving team starts with one server instead of two to balance the advantage. For example, if the score is "0-0-2," this indicates the second server is serving. After the serve is lost, the serve transfers to the opposing team.
2. Switching Servers
Each team gets two serves per turn—one for each player—except for the first serving sequence of the game. When the serving team loses a rally, the serve shifts to the second server. If the second server loses their serve, the opposing team gains the serve.
3. Winning a Point
Only the serving team can score points. A point is scored when the opposing team fails to return the ball, hits the ball out of bounds, or commits a fault (such as stepping into the kitchen during a volley).
Example of Doubles Scoring
The score is 4-2-1. This means the serving team has 4 points, the receiving team has 2, and the first server is serving.
The serving team wins the rally and earns a point. The new score is 5-2-1.
The serving team loses the next rally. The second server takes over, and the score becomes 5-2-2.
The second server loses the serve, and the serve transfers to the opposing team.
Singles Scoring: Simpler but Strategic
Singles scoring follows the same rules as doubles but without the third number since there’s only one server per side.
Key Differences in Singles
Players serve from the right side of the court when their score is even and from the left side when their score is odd.
The first serve starts at "0-0."
Example of Singles Scoring
The score is 3-2. The serving player stands on the left side of the court (odd score) and serves to the diagonally opposite side.
The serving player wins the rally and earns a point. The new score is 4-2.
With an even score, the server moves to the right side for the next serve.
Understanding Faults and Their Impact on Scoring
Faults can interrupt gameplay and impact scoring. Here are the most common faults:
Hitting the Ball Out of Bounds: The ball must land within the court boundaries.
Stepping into the Kitchen During a Volley: Players cannot step into the non-volley zone when hitting a volley.
Double Bounce Rule Violation: Each team must allow the ball to bounce once on their side before volleying.
Missed Serve: Serves must land diagonally in the opponent's service court.
When a fault is committed by the serving team, they lose the serve. When committed by the receiving team, the serving team scores a point.
Tips for Keeping Score
Announce the Score Loudly and Clearly
Before each serve, the server must announce the score, including their server number (in doubles). This ensures everyone is on the same page.Track Your Server Number
In doubles, remember whether you’re the first or second server. Switching servers out of sequence can lead to confusion or penalties.Use a Scoring App or Paddle
Many pickleball players use scoring apps or paddles with built-in score trackers to keep things simple.Practice During Friendly Games
Playing casual matches with an experienced partner is a great way to practice scoring in a low-pressure environment.
Advanced Scoring Situations
Tiebreakers
If the score reaches 10-10, the game continues until one team wins by 2 points (e.g., 12-10 or 14-12).
Switching Sides
In tournament play, players or teams switch sides of the court when the first team reaches 6 points. This ensures that any environmental factors, like sun or wind, are evenly distributed.
Common Beginner Mistakes
Forgetting to Switch Server Position: In doubles, servers must alternate between the right and left sides of the court after each point scored.
Misannouncing the Score: Double-check your score before serving to avoid confusion.
Assuming Both Teams Can Score: Only the serving team can score points. This is a common misconception for beginners transitioning from other sports.
Why Learning to Keep Score Matters
Understanding pickleball scoring is essential for fair play, building confidence, and competing in tournaments. It also ensures smoother, more enjoyable games with fewer interruptions for disputes or confusion.
Conclusion
While keeping score in pickleball may seem complex at first, practice makes perfect. By familiarizing yourself with the rules and staying focused on the three-number system, you’ll quickly gain confidence and enjoy the game to its fullest. So grab a paddle, hit the court, and put your new scoring knowledge to the test!