Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Known for its approachability and accessibility, it attracts players of all ages and skill levels. Tennis 13 offers you a complete guide to the rules of this captivating sport.

1. The Court and Equipment

The pickleball court measures 13.41 meters long and 6.10 meters wide, roughly the size of a badminton doubles court. The net height is 91.4 cm at the sides and 86.4 cm in the middle. Pickleball is played with a paddle made of composite or wood and a perforated plastic ball.

2. The Serve

• The serve is made diagonally, from the right service area to the opposite receiving zone.
• The ball must be struck underhand, with an upward motion.
• The server must keep at least one foot behind the baseline and can only step onto the court after hitting the ball.
• The serve must clear the net without touching it and land in the designated receiving zone.

3. Rallying

• Play begins with a rally after a successful serve.
• Players must let the ball bounce once on each side before hitting volleys.
• After these two bounces, players can either volley the ball or hit it after a bounce.
• The rally continues until one team commits a fault.

4. The Non-Volley Zone (“Kitchen”)

• The non-volley zone, known as the “kitchen,” is a 2.13-meter area on both sides of the net.
• Players cannot hit volleys while standing in this zone.
• They may enter the zone to return a ball after it bounces but must exit before attempting a volley.

5. Scoring System

• Points are only scored by the serving team.
• A point is awarded when the opposing team commits a fault, such as hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net.
• Matches are typically played to 11 points, with a two-point margin required to win.

6. Common Faults

• Hitting the ball out of bounds.
• Not letting the ball bounce during the first two hits of a rally.
• Hitting the ball into the net.
• Volleying the ball from the “kitchen.”

7. Singles and Doubles

Pickleball can be played as singles (1 vs. 1) or doubles (2 vs. 2). The rules remain the same for both formats, though strategies may differ.

8. The Spirit of the Game

Pickleball is primarily a social and enjoyable sport. It promotes fair play, respect for opponents, and the joy of the game. At Tennis 13, we invite you to discover this sport in a friendly environment and improve your skills on our dedicated courts.

Pickleball is easy to learn but challenging to master, offering hours of entertainment for players of all levels. Tennis 13 is proud to promote this sport and support your journey in discovering or advancing in pickleball. Come play with us and join the growing community of this exciting sport!