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Pickleball doubles is a dynamic, fast-paced game that combines strategy, teamwork, and precision. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, understanding the rules of pickleball doubles is essential for maximizing your enjoyment and competitiveness. This comprehensive guide covers everything from scoring and court dimensions to boundary decisions and advanced strategies. Let’s dive into the world of doubles pickleball and equip you with the knowledge to dominate the court!
1. Pickleball Doubles Court Layout and Dimensions
The pickleball court for doubles is identical to the singles court but requires players to master teamwork and positioning. Here’s a breakdown of the court specifications:
- Court Size: 20 feet wide by 44 feet long (the same as a doubles badminton court).
- Net Height: 34 inches at the center, 36 inches at the sidelines.
- Key Zones:
- Non-Volley Zone (NVZ / Kitchen): A 7-foot area on both sides of the net where volleying is prohibited.
- Service Courts: Two 10’ x 15’ rectangles on each side, divided by the centerline.
- Baselines and Sidelines: Define the outer boundaries of the court.
Pro Tip: Use brightly colored tape to mark boundaries for better visibility during fast-paced rallies.
2. Pickleball Doubles Scoring System Explained
Scoring in pickleball doubles follows a unique sequence that can confuse newcomers. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
A. Starting the Game
- The first serve of the game is always made from the right-hand service court.
- The serving team’s score determines the serving position:
- Even Score (0, 2, 4…): Serve from the right service court.
- Odd Score (1, 3, 5…): Serve from the left service court.
B. Calling the Score
- The score is announced in the order: “Serving Team Score – Receiving Team Score – Server Number” (e.g., “3-2-1”).
- Server Number: Indicates whether it’s the first or second server’s turn (more on this below).
C. Side-Outs and Serve Rotation
- Side-Out: When the serving team commits a fault, the serve transfers to the opposing team.
- Server Rotation:
- In doubles, each team has two servers (Server 1 and Server 2).
- The first server (Server 1) serves until a fault occurs.
- The second server (Server 2) then serves until another fault occurs, after which the serve goes to the opposing team.
- Exception: At the start of the game, only one server is allowed (to prevent a double advantage).
D. Winning the Game
- Games are typically played to 11 points, but tournament matches may go to 15 or 21 points.
- A team must win by 2 points (e.g., 11-9, 15-13).
3. Serving Rules in Pickleball Doubles
Serving in doubles requires precision and adherence to specific guidelines:
- Underhand Serve Only:
- The paddle must contact the ball below the server’s waist.
- The server’s arm must move upward in an arc (no sidearm or overhead serves).
- Diagonal Serve:
- The serve must land in the diagonally opposite service court.
- Foot Faults:
- The server’s feet must not touch the baseline or sideline during the serve.
- Let Serves:
- If the ball hits the net and lands in the correct service court, the serve is replayed without penalty.
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4. The Two-Bounce Rule in pickleball Doubles
A cornerstone of pickleball strategy, the two-bounce rule ensures longer rallies and fair play:
- First Bounce: The receiving team must let the serve bounce before returning it.
- Second Bounce: The serving team must let the return bounce before hitting it.
- After Two Bounces: Players can volley (hit the ball in the air) or play groundstrokes.
Violation: Failing to let the ball bounce results in a fault.
5. Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen) Rules
The NVZ, or “kitchen,” is a critical area that demands careful footwork:
- No Volleying in the Kitchen: Players cannot hit the ball in the air while standing in the NVZ.
- Foot Faults:
- If a player’s momentum carries them into the NVZ after a volley, it’s a fault.
- Shoes touching the NVZ line during a volley also count as a fault.
- Legal Entries: Players may enter the NVZ to play a bounced ball.
6. Boundary Calls and Line Judgments
Accurate line calls are crucial for fair play. Here’s what you need to know:
- Lines Are In: A ball touching any part of a line is considered in bounds.
- Out of Bounds: A ball landing outside the lines is out.
- Player Responsibility:
- Players call lines on their side of the court.
- In tournaments, referees may oversee disputed calls.
Common Scenarios:
- Sideline Shots: If a serve or rally shot lands on the sideline, it’s in.
- Baseline Shots: A ball touching the baseline is valid, even if it rolls out afterward.
7. Communication and Positioning Strategies
Success in doubles hinges on teamwork and smart positioning:
A. Stacking Technique
- What It Is: Partners stand on the same side of the court to maximize strengths (e.g., a left-handed player on the right).
- When to Use: During serves and returns to maintain dominant positioning.
B. Switching Sides
- Partners switch sides during rallies to cover weaknesses (e.g., a player with a strong backhand takes the left side).
C. Verbal Cues
- Use phrases like “Mine!” or “Yours!” to avoid collisions and confusion.
8. Common Faults in pickleball Doubles Play
Avoid these mistakes to stay competitive:
- Foot Faults: Stepping into the NVZ during a volley or on the serve.
- Double Bounce: Failing to let the ball bounce twice (serve and return).
- Out-of-Bounds Serve: Landing the serve outside the diagonal service court.
- Body Contact: Hitting the ball with your body or clothing.
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9. Advanced pickleball Doubles Strategies
Elevate your game with these tactics:
A. Dinking Duels
- Engage in soft shots (dinks) over the NVZ to force opponents into errors.
B. Third Shot Drop
- After the serve and return, hit a soft shot into the NVZ to transition to the net.
C. Poaching
- The non-receiving partner intercepts a cross-court shot to catch opponents off guard.
D. Lob Shots
- Send high-arcing shots over opponents’ heads to push them back.
10. Pickleball Doubles Etiquette
Respect and sportsmanship are integral to the game:
- Call Lines Honestly: Never argue an opponent’s call.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay quiet during serves and critical points.
- Retrieve Balls Promptly: Keep the game moving by quickly returning stray balls.
11. Tournament-Specific Rules
Competitive play often has additional guidelines:
- Paddle Specifications: USAPA-approved paddles only.
- Attire Requirements: Non-marking shoes and coordinated team uniforms.
- Referee Involvement: Line judges and referees oversee disputes.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can both partners serve in the same game?
A: Yes, but only one partner serves at a time. The serve alternates between partners after a side-out.
Q: What happens if the ball hits the net post?
A: If the ball hits the post and lands inbounds, it’s a fault.
Q: Is there a mercy rule in doubles?
A: No, but teams often concede lopsided games early.
Master Pickleball Doubles and Dominate the Court!
Pickleball doubles is a thrilling blend of strategy, agility, and teamwork. By mastering the rules—from scoring and serving to kitchen zone tactics—you’ll elevate your game and enjoy every rally. Whether you’re playing for fun or competing in tournaments, this guide equips you with the knowledge to excel. Grab your paddle, partner up, and let the games begin!
POM Pickleball Story
Our brand is called “POM”, and we are committed to providing high-quality sports equipment and accessories for pickleball enthusiasts. We believe that pickleball is not only a competitive sport, but also a lifestyle. It combines the characteristics of tennis, table tennis and badminton, and is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. Whether it is a gathering with friends and family or a formal competition, pickleball can bring people closer together and enhance mutual understanding and friendship.
“POM” is full of love for the sport of pickleball and a sense of responsibility for the pickleball community. We have gathered a passionate and experienced team, and we have devoted our efforts to every link from product design to production and manufacturing. We not only focus on the quality and performance of the product, but also pay attention to making every user feel the fun of pickleball. Whether it is a beginner or an experienced player, our products can meet different needs, helping every sports enthusiast to break through themselves and enjoy the joy of the game.
Why Choose POM
HIGH END QUALITY:As one of the best pickleball seller, our QC team will ensure every single product you receive are best quality.
PRODUCT DESIGN: Our design department has complete process of making drawings into reality. We also improve your product design based on our years of working experience.
STABLE DELIVERY TIME:As one of the best pickleball manufacturer & supplier,we have sufficient manufacturing capacity, big orders won’t beat us, we can still deliver the order for you in time.
BEST PRICE: We have source factory of pickleball and accessories in China, that’s why we can provide high quality bags with best price.
PRECISE MANAGEMENT:Nothing can be achieved if we don’t implement precise management. We are a company with complete management system.
7-24 SERVICE:As the best pickleball manufacturer, 24-7 immediate response: We’ll receive your feedback to make us a better supplier. We’ll deal with any problems till you feel satisfied.contact us(+86 18902611680)
FAQs About POM
Are you a manufacturer or a trader?
We are a Chinese top manufacturer and our factory is located in Dongguan. Welcome to visit our factory!
What is your product range?
• We are a professional pickleball and accessories product provider. We can produce kinds of pickleballs for multi-purpose.
• We provide one-stop services and accept custom designs as your requirements.
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Can you provide samples？
•Of course, usually we will provide samples for your testing. For custom printed samples, pls send your requirements to us for checking the sample cost.
• It takes about 7 days for sample production.
Can you provide a free design for my box?
Yes, we provide free design services, structural design and simple graphic design with your logo.
Can I have my custom logo , design or size?
Sure. We can do any packaging with your design. You can still have your own logo.
What's the delivery time?
Bulk order depending on the order quantity and production details, it will take about 15 to 20 days.
How can we guarantee quality?
Always a pre-production sample before mass production; Always final Inspection before shipment
What information should I provide for a quotation？
• Size, material, printing details, quantity, shipping destination, etc.
• You can also just tell us your requirements and we will recommend products to you.
How to ship goods?
• By sea, by air or by express.
• If you have your own freight forwarder in China, it is the ex-factory or FOB price.
•CFR or CIF, etc., if you need us to ship on your behalf.
• DDP and DDU can also be used.
• More choices, we will consider your choices.
How much is it?
• The price is determined by the quantity, material, processing method, size and other factors. In addition, due to our continuous
technological innovation, the prices of some of our products are extremely competitive, please contact us to quote.
Leo-Pickleball expert
Foreign trade business director
13 years of business experience
Serve well-known brand customers
Any questions, please feel free to contact me immediately！
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