If you’re new to the fastest-growing sport in America, you’re not alone. Pickleball is easy to pick up, incredibly fun, and perfect for players of all ages. But if there’s one thing that tends to confuse beginners, it’s how to keep score in pickleball.
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn the official pickleball scoring rules, how scoring differs in singles vs doubles, and how using the right equipment—like the premium XS-40 Pickleball Ball by Srikel—can enhance your game.
Let’s break it down step by step so you can get on the court with confidence.
🎯 The Basics of Pickleball Scoring
Pickleball is played to 11 points, but you must win by 2. Points can only be scored by the serving team, which makes strategy and consistency key to winning matches.
🧍 Singles Pickleball Scoring: Simple & Straightforward
In singles, you only have one player on each side, and the scoring system is simpler than doubles.
Here’s how to keep score in singles:
- The server always starts on the right side (even court) when their score is even (0, 2, 4…).
- They serve from the left side (odd court) when their score is odd (1, 3, 5…).
- If the server wins the point, they switch sides and serve again.
- If they lose the rally, the serve goes to the opponent—no switching sides unless a point was won.
🟩 Example: If the score is 4–2, the server stands on the right side (even number), serves diagonally, and keeps serving if they win points.
👯♀️ Doubles Pickleball Scoring: Slightly More Complex
In doubles, things get a bit more interesting.
Each team has two players, and both teammates get a chance to serve before the serve passes to the opposing team (except for the first server of the game, who gets only one serve).
The Doubles Scoring Format: Three Numbers
You’ll often hear scores announced like “6–4–1.” Here’s what it means:
- First Number: Serving team’s score
- Second Number: Receiving team’s score
- Third Number: Server number (1 or 2)
So “6–4–1” means:
- The serving team has 6 points
- The opposing team has 4 points
- The first server of the team is serving
Once the first server loses a rally, their partner (server 2) serves. If server 2 loses the rally, the serve switches sides.
📝 Tip for Beginners: Mark your paddles or use wristbands to remember who is server 1 and server 2!
⛳ Important Pickleball Scoring Rules to Remember
- Only the serving team can score points
- Games are played to 11, but you must win by 2
- Players switch sides only after scoring a point on their serve
- Calling out the score before every serve is mandatory
- If you’re unsure, ask your partner or opponent—it’s common for newer players to double-check
🎾 Using the Right Ball Matters: Try the Srikel XS-40 Pickleball Ball
Scoring becomes more enjoyable and accurate when you’re using consistent, tournament-grade equipment—like the XS-40 Pickleball Ball, proudly offered by Srikel.
Why the XS-40 Stands Out:
- Engineered for true flight and bounce consistency
- Approved for both indoor and outdoor play
- Durable polymer material resists cracking
- 40 precisely drilled holes for wind resistance and smooth spins
Whether you’re playing a casual game in the driveway or competing in a local league, the Srikel XS-40 ensures each rally is smooth and fair—especially when the score is close!
Srikel sells not only balls but also paddles, nets, and complete pickleball sets for beginners and pros alike.
🧮 Pro Tips for Keeping Score Like a Champ
- Say the score aloud before every serve — this is required by official rules and keeps everyone on the same page.
- Use a scoring app or write scores down between games, especially in round-robin tournaments.
- Learn the serving rotation early—it’s the trickiest part for new doubles players.
- Use color-coded bands or paddle stickers to help track server order during fast-paced games.
💬 Final Thoughts: Mastering Pickleball Scoring
Learning how to keep score in pickleball can feel confusing at first, especially in doubles, but it becomes second nature the more you play. Once you get the hang of calling out “6–5–2” without hesitation, you’ll know you’re becoming a real player!
More importantly, using great gear—like the XS-40 Pickleball Ball by Srikel—will make your rallies more consistent, fun, and competitive. Whether you’re new to the game or prepping for a tournament, Srikel sells top-quality pickleball equipment built for performance and reliability.
🏓 Ready to Serve and Score?
Now that you know how to keep score in both singles and doubles, it’s time to hit the court with confidence. Just remember: the serve must be underhand, only the serving team scores, and yes—it’s perfectly normal to mix up the server number once in a while!
Grab your gear, call out the score, and enjoy the game that’s taking the world by storm. And don’t forget to pack your Srikel XS-40 Pickleball Balls for a game that’s as smooth as your scorekeeping.