Pickleball scoring can seem confusing when you first start playing the game. Unlike many other sports, the score in pickleball includes three numbers when playing doubles, which can make it difficult for beginners to follow.
However, once you understand the basic principles, pickleball scoring is actually quite simple.
In this guide, we’ll explain how scoring works in pickleball, when points are awarded, and how games are won.
How Pickleball Scoring Works
In pickleball, points can only be scored by the serving team.
If the serving team wins a rally, they earn one point and continue serving. If the receiving team wins the rally, they gain the serve but do not score a point.
Most pickleball games are played to 11 points, and a team must win by at least two points.
Understanding the Three Numbers in Doubles
In doubles pickleball, the score is called using three numbers.
Example:
4–2–1
These numbers represent:
Serving team's score – receiving team's score – server number
The server number indicates whether the first or second server on the team is serving.
This system allows both players on a team to serve before the serve switches to the opposing team.
How Serving Works in Pickleball
At the start of the game, only one player from the serving team serves.
After that, both players on a team get a chance to serve before the serve moves to the other team. This is known as a side out.
The serve must be hit underhand and diagonally across the court.
Pickleball Scoring in Singles
Scoring in singles pickleball is simpler because there is only one server on each side.
The score is called using two numbers instead of three.
Example:
6–3
The server’s score is always called first.
The serving player also serves from different sides of the court depending on whether their score is even or odd.
When a Game Ends
Most pickleball games are played to 11 points, but players must win by two points.
For example:
11–9
However, some tournaments and competitive matches may be played to 15 or 21 points.
Final Thoughts
Pickleball scoring may seem unusual at first, but it becomes easy to follow after a few games. The most important thing to remember is that only the serving team can score points.
Once you understand the basic scoring system, you’ll find it much easier to enjoy the game and keep track of the score during matches.