How does scoring work in pickleball?
How points are scored
In traditional pickleball scoring, only the team that is serving can score a point. If the receiving team wins a rally, it does not get a point; it wins the serve instead, which is called a side-out. This is why serving well matters so much in this scoring system.
A standard game is played to 11 points, and you must win by 2. If the score reaches 10-10, play continues until one team leads by two. Many recreational groups use this format, while some tournaments and newer leagues use different target scores.
- Only the serving team scores points in traditional scoring
- Games are commonly played to 11, win by 2
- Singles scores are called with two numbers
- Doubles scores are called with three numbers
Calling the score
In doubles, the score is called with three numbers: the serving team's score, the receiving team's score, and which server is serving. In singles, you call only two numbers. Calling the score in the right order keeps play moving and avoids arguments.
Faults end a rally. A fault by the serving team ends the serve, and a fault by the receiving team gives the serving team a point. The serve must be made underhand and must land in the diagonal service box.
Rally scoring
Some leagues and events use rally scoring, where every rally produces a point for one team regardless of who served. Rally scoring is often played to 15 or 21. Check the sanctioning body or tournament rules before you play.
Common mistakes
- Calling the score in the wrong order, which confuses partners and opponents.
- Expecting a point on every rally when the event uses traditional side-out scoring.
- Stopping at 11 without winning by 2.
