While the serve is one of the essential shots in pickleball, there is still some confusion. Many new players wonder: do you get 2 serves in pickleball?

In tennis, you get two serves. In racquetball, you also get two serves. But what about in pickleball? Well, the answer to that question depends on who you ask. Some say that you only get one serve per side, while others believe you get two serves per side. So which is it?

Unlike in tennis and volleyball, pickleball players only get one serve before turning it over to the opponent. If they do not make a correct serve, it is counted as a fault, and the serve is lost to the opponent. However, they can only repeat the serve in the case of a let.

The serve is probably the most important stroke for those who haven't played pickleball before. A good serve can help you control the game's pace, keep your opponents on their toes, and win points.

We get this question several times as pickleball experts, especially from players only starting. This article will help you understand the rules of serve and how you can master the art of serving.

Do You Get 2 Serves in Pickleball?

If you're new to pickleball, you might be wondering if you get two serves. The simple answer is no - you only get one serve per turn. The server in Pickleball is only given one attempt at making a legal serve, i.e., hitting the ball with an underhand, across and diagonally to the opponent’s serving area, and over the net. If they do not make a proper serve and the ball falls out of bounds, does not clear the net, or bounces twice in the server’s court, it will count as a fault, and the opponent will be awarded the serve.

However, the server can repeat the serve only if their serve falls into the opponent’s side of the court after hitting the net. Only then the serve can be repeated.

On the other hand, the server can continue serving until they commit a fault, such as hitting the ball out of bounds, not being able to clear the ball into the opponent’s side of the court, hitting a volley in the kitchen, etc.

Other Rules of Serving

Underhand Serve Rule

The underhand serve is one of the most basic yet important shots in pickleball. If you can master this shot, you'll have a big advantage over your opponents. Here's how to perform an underhand serve:

First, start with the pickleball paddle in your non-dominant hand and the ball in your dominant hand. Next, step forward with your non-dominant foot and bend your elbow so that the paddle is pointing down toward the ground. Then, swing the paddle up and around your body, hitting the ball squarely in the center.

An important thing to remember is that the point of contact between the paddle and the ball should be below your waist height. After contact, follow through by continuing the upward motion of the paddle until it's perpendicular to the ground. Remember to keep your wrist firm throughout the entire motion.

Feet Placement

If you're just starting in pickleball, you may be wondering where to stand during your serve. The most important thing to remember is that you must be standing behind the baseline when you hit the ball - if you step into the court before serving, it will be a fault. Once you're in position, there are a few different options for feet placement.

One option is to place your feet shoulder-width apart and square to the net, with your weight evenly distributed. Another option is to start with your feet together and then take a small step forward with your right foot as you swing. Experiment with different positions and find what works best for you.

Cross-Court Service

In pickleball, the cross-court serving rule is common to keep the game fair and even. This rule states that you can only serve the ball cross-court, meaning it must travel diagonally from one side of the court. This ensures that both players have an equal chance to reach the ball and return it. Additionally, the cross-court serving rule helps to keep the game moving quickly by preventing players from taking too much time to line up their shots.

Pickleball Serving Fault Rules

When you're playing pickleball, a few different faults can occur during a serve. One fault is if you don't hit the ball in the proper service zone. Another possibility is if you hit the ball before it has had a chance to bounce. Finally, you will also commit a fault if your feet cross the baseline when you contact the ball.

If any of these faults occur, your opponent will receive the point. However, it's important to note that there are some situations where a let can be called. This means that the point will be replayed, and no one will receive a point.

For example, the ball hits the net on your serve but goes over into the proper service zone. In this case, a let would be called, and you would get to take another serve. These are just a few of the things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to pickleball serving fault rules.

How Does Scoring Work in Pickleball?

In pickleball, points are scored when the opposing team faults. A fault can occur when the ball fails to clear the net, when the player hits the ball out of bounds, or when the player double hits the ball. The game is played to 11 points, with players serving from the right side of the court for the first point and then alternating sides for each subsequent point. If the score reaches 10-10, players must win by two points to win the game. The serves alternate between teams until one team scores 11 points and wins the game.