Pickleball Scoring Explained: Singles, Doubles, and Rally Scoring
Pickleball scoring confuses a lot of new players, especially the three-number system used in doubles. Here's a clear breakdown of how scoring works in every format, from backyard doubles to competitive tournaments.
Basic scoring: only servers score
In traditional pickleball, only the serving team can score points. If the receiving team wins the rally, they earn the serve (called a side-out) but not a point. Games are typically played to 11 and you must win by 2. Tournament games sometimes go to 15 or 21. This is why games can take a long time, no points are scored during long stretches of receiving.
Singles scoring
In singles, the score is called as two numbers: the server's score, then the receiver's score. Example: '5-3' means the server has 5 points and the receiver has 3. Serve position alternates: if your score is even, you serve from the right side; if odd, from the left side. This ensures players alternate sides as they score.
Doubles scoring: the three-number system
Doubles uses three numbers: server score, receiver score, and server number (1 or 2). Example: '4-2-1' means the serving team has 4 points, the receiving team has 2, and the first server is serving. When the first server faults, the second server serves. When both fault, it's a side-out. Exception: at the start of the game, the first team only gets one server (to reduce the serving advantage).
Why server number matters
Server 1 always starts on the right side when their team begins serving. After scoring a point, they switch sides. Server 2 starts on whatever side they're on when they inherit the serve. This gets confusing, the best way to keep track is to remember your score determines your position (even = right, odd = left).
Rally scoring: the alternative
Rally scoring, where either team can score on any rally, is used in some formats (like MLP and some recreational leagues). It speeds up games significantly. Points are still called the same way, but side-outs don't result in zero-point rallies. Rally scoring games are often played to 15 or 21. Expect to see more rally scoring at recreational settings in coming years.
Keeping score during open play
The server is responsible for calling the score loudly before each serve. This prevents disputes and helps both teams track position. If you lose track, agree on the score with your opponents, most recreational play runs on the honor system. For tournaments, a referee calls the score.
Next steps
Turn the guide into your next session
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