Pickleball - Double-Bounce Rule

The double-bounce rule in pickleball is a fundamental concept that ensures fair play and strategic depth. It dictates that the ball must bounce once on each side of the net after the serve and before either team can hit the ball in the air (volley).

Understanding the Rule

The double-bounce rule applies to the return of serve. When the serving team serves the ball, the receiving team must allow the ball to bounce once before hitting it. After the receiving team hits the ball back over the net, the serving team must also allow that ball to bounce once before hitting it. Only after these two bounces (one on the receiving side, one on the serving side) have occurred, can players legally hit the ball out of the air (volley) without letting it bounce.

Why the Double-Bounce Rule is Important

This rule is crucial for several reasons:

• Evens the Playing Field: It prevents the serving team from immediately rushing the net and hitting an aggressive volley, which would give them an unfair advantage. It also allows the receiving team to get into position and set up their return.
• Promotes Rallies: By requiring two bounces, the rule encourages longer rallies and more strategic play. Players have more time to react and position themselves, leading to more engaging exchanges.
• Encourages Soft Game: It promotes the use of dinks and dropshots, as players cannot immediately smash the ball after the serve or return. This adds a finesse element to the game.

Consequences of Violating the Rule

If a player violates the double-bounce rule (i.e., hits a volley before the ball has bounced once on their side after the serve or return of serve), it is considered a fault. The rally ends, and the opposing team earns a point (if they served) or the serve (if they were the receiving team).

Common Misconceptions

A common misconception is that the double-bounce rule applies throughout the entire rally. However, it only applies to the first two shots of the rally (the serve and the return of serve). After those initial two bounces, players are free to volley the ball (hit it out of the air) as long as they are not in the non-volley zone (kitchen) while doing so, unless the ball bounces in the kitchen first.

Drill to Practice the Double-Bounce Rule

Here's a simple drill to help players practice and internalize the double-bounce rule:

1. Start with a Serve: One player serves the ball.
2. Receive and Let Bounce: The receiving player lets the ball bounce once and then hits it back.
3. Return and Let Bounce: The serving player lets the ball bounce once and then hits it back.
4. Continue Rally: After these two bounces, players can then volley the ball or let it bounce, continuing the rally as usual.