Mastering the Basics of Pickleball: Scoring Systems, Rules, and Etiquette

Pickleball: The Ultimate Guide to Scoring, Rules, and Etiquette

Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has been gaining popularity in Malaysia. With its own organisation, the Malaysia Pickleball Association, the sport has found a dedicated following among people of all ages and skill levels.

According to Farrell Choo, the founder of the Malaysia Pickleball Association, pickleball is an incredibly accessible sport that anyone can pick up. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, pickleball offers a fun and engaging way to stay active and socialize with friends.

As the sport continues to grow in popularity, it’s important to understand the rules and etiquette of pickleball to ensure a fair and enjoyable playing experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Scoring System:
There are two types of scoring in pickleball: traditional scoring and rally scoring. In rally scoring, points are awarded to the player who wins the rally, regardless of who served. This applies to both singles and doubles play. Familiarizing yourself with these scoring systems will help you keep track of points and stay competitive during games.

Simple but Mandatory Rules to Follow:
– Double Bounce Rule: Players must let the pickleball bounce before hitting it, and they are not allowed to return the serve while standing in the non-volley zone, known as the “kitchen.” Violating these rules results in a fault.
– Body Position During Serving: Players must position one foot behind the baseline before serving and execute the serve with an underhand motion, keeping the paddle below the waist. Stepping on or over the baseline while serving is not allowed.

Exceptional Rule of ‘Let’ Serve:
A ‘let’ serve occurs when the pickleball hits the net but still lands in the correct serving box. This situation is not counted as a fault, and the server is allowed to “re-serve.” This rule is still in effect in the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour.

Target Score to Win:
Typical target scores in pickleball are 11, 15, or 21 points. In singles play, players must be ahead by at least two points to win. In doubles play, the scoring format changes to 0-0-2, with serves alternating between teams.

Understanding these rules and scoring systems is essential for gameplay and match dynamics in pickleball. So grab a paddle, invite some friends, and dive into the exciting world of pickleball!