How to Play Pickleball Singles – Pickleball Singles Rules Explained

Pickleball has recently become one of the fastest-growing sports among racquet sports in the world, and while most people start by playing doubles, singles pickleball is a whole different thrill. Faster, more intense, and physically demanding, singles pickleball is perfect for players looking to elevate their fitness and skills.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to play pickleball singles, including court setup, scoring, serve rules, and winning strategies to help you train for the singles pickleball game. If you are playing a singles pickleball match, start with choosing to buy pickleball paddles at an affordable price.

What Is Singles Pickleball?

In singles pickleball, it's one player versus one player—no partners, no help. The rules for single play are mostly similar to doubles pickleball, but there are few slight differences in serving, positioning, and strategy. Singles games focus more on agility, speed, and endurance, requiring players to cover the entire court themselves.

Court Dimensions and Setup

The court dimensions for singles are the same as doubles:

• 20 feet wide by 44 feet long
  

• Non-volley zone (kitchen): 7 feet on each side of the net
  

• Service areas: Divided into left and right service courts
  

There are no special markings for singles play. The key difference is that each player is responsible for covering the entire court.

Basic Rules of Pickleball Singles

1. Serve Rules Unique to Singles

• The server switches sides (left or right) after each successful point.
  

• The server continues serving until they lose a rally.
  

• The opponent then becomes the server—no second server like in doubles.

2. Scoring Rules

• Only the server can score points.
  

• Games are typically played to 11 points, and a player must win by 2 points.
  

• The score is called as two numbers: [server's score] - [receiver's score]. No third number is used, as in doubles (which indicates the server number).

• 0 (first number): The serving team's score.

• 0 (second number): The receiving team's score.

• 2 (third number): Indicates that the second server on the serving team is initiating the serve.

3. Double Bounce Rule

• After the serve, both players must let the ball bounce once before hitting it. This means:
  

• The receiver lets the serve bounce.
  

• The server lets the return bounce.
  

• After this, players can volley or groundstroke.

4. The Kitchen (Non-Volley Zone)

• Players cannot volley (hit the ball in the air) while standing inside the kitchen.
  

• You may enter the kitchen only after the ball bounces in it.
  

• Foot faults in the kitchen are strictly enforced—stay out when volleying.

Singles Pickleball Strategy Tips

To succeed in singles, you’ll need more than just understanding the rules—you’ll need solid tactics. Here are some essential strategies:

1. Master the Deep Serve

A deep serve pushes your opponent toward the baseline, giving you more time to react and potentially forcing a weak return.

2. Return Deep and Angled

When returning serve, aim for a deep corner shot to keep your opponent on the run. This limits their attacking options.

3. Move Efficiently

Footwork is everything in singles. Stay centered after each shot, and don’t overcommit to one side. Always recover quickly to the middle of the baseline.

4. Use the Drop Shot Wisely

If your opponent is stuck at the baseline, a well-placed drop shot can force them to sprint forward, opening up the court for a passing shot on the next hit.

5. Practice Passing Shots

Singles is all about creating angles. If your opponent moves toward the net, look for a low crosscourt or down-the-line pass.

Common Mistakes in Singles Pickleball

Avoid these pitfalls to improve faster:

• Poor recovery position: Always return to the center of the baseline after hitting.

• Shallow serves or returns: These give your opponent easy put-away shots.

• Rushing the net too soon: Unlike doubles, you often need to stay back longer.

Ideal Gear for Singles Play

While any standard pickleball paddle works, singles players often benefit from:

• Power-focused paddles: For strong drives and passing shots

• Comfortable court shoes: To support lateral movement

• Lightweight apparel: For better agility and reduced fatigue

Looking for a good singles paddle? Check out our list of Top Power Pickleball Paddles in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Playing pickleball singles is a fantastic way to challenge yourself and improve the gameplay both physically and mentally. The playing pace is faster, the court feels larger, and your endurance will be on stake. But with the right understanding of singles pickleball rules, smart strategies, and proper court understandings, you'll quickly gain power on the court.

Whether you're transitioning from doubles or starting fresh, singles will sharpen your shot-making, footwork, and mental toughness. So grab your paddle, hit the court, and enjoy the thrill of singles pickleball!