The Key Differences Between Pickleball Singles & Doubles
Pickleball’s rise as the world’s most popular recreational game is undeniable. For newcomers curious about the sport, understanding the differences between singles and doubles can help clarify any confusion.
Serving
The first noticeable difference between the two is the serve. In singles, your serve game must be strong because there isn’t a partner the opponent can lean on. While a solid doubles serve is helpful, players usually win points from the back-and-forth after it.
Elite singles players could exploit your opponent’s weaknesses immediately. Putting your competitor on their heels with a strong serve should quickly give you the point.
If you are flying solo, it helps to be in better physical condition because you must cover your side of the court by yourself. Luckily, a doubles game doesn’t require as much movement, although it’s still a great way to break a sweat.
Scoring
There are a few differences in scoring, so let’s begin with the gameplay. Scoring in singles pickleball isn’t arduous, particularly if you serve like a pro. It may only take a couple of volleys before you earn a point. That’s not usually how it goes with doubles. Intense rallies will cause a spectator’s head to spin, and usually, a point occurs because of an opponent’s fault.
Note: You only score points in doubles pickleball if you’re serving. Now, to the differences between scoring and how you call it out. We’re accustomed to only caring about two numbers on the scoreboard—your and your opponent’s points. However, for doubles pickleball, there is a third number to announce.
Say your opponents have four points compared to your two. The serving team would call out their score, your score, and the server number. For example, if they were serving, it would be 4-2-1. There’s no reason to call out the server in singles competition, considering you are the only server; the server’s and receiver’s scores suffice.
Winning Strategies
As the famous sound bite from former NFL head coach Herman Edwards states, “You play to win the game.” It’s integral that you incorporate a proper strategy for each version of the game to emerge victorious.
A strong singles player must have a strong and accurate serve, can return their opposition’s serve swiftly, and play within their means. By playing within your means, we mean this is not the time to try anything complicated. Akin to a stand-up comic, performing new material may not be the best idea in front of a sold-out theater. Instead, you should play the hits and what you know will work well.
For doubles, communication is of the utmost importance. If you’re not communicating with your partner, you might as well play without a paddle. Knowing your partner has your back yields positive results. Another key to doubles success is keeping your opponent in the middle of the court. Opting for this strategy will keep them guessing how to return the ball. Anything that makes your foes uncomfortable and questioning things is a huge help.
Conclusion
The differences between pickleball singles and doubles can help you decide if one version works better for you than the other. Midwest Racquet Sports wants you to play like a pro by offering pickleball supplies your favorite professional players rely on, such as JOOLA, Six Zero, K-Swiss, and Nike. Get yours today to take your game to the next level!