Pickleball is a fun sport played by many people. It is easy to learn but has special rules. One important part is how to serve the ball. Serving means you hit the ball to start the game.
In this article, we will explain the rules and steps to serve in pickleball. These rules help players play fair and enjoy the game.
What is Pickleball Serving?
Serving in pickleball is the first hit to start a point. The server hits the ball to the other side of the court. The serve must follow certain rules to be legal. If the serve is not correct, the other team gets the ball.
Five Main Rules of Serving in Pickleball
Here are the five main rules you must know to serve right in pickleball:
- The serve must be underhand.
- The server must stand behind the baseline.
- The serve must go diagonally to the opposite service box.
- The ball must land in the correct service box and avoid the non-volley zone.
- The server gets only one attempt per serve.
Rule 1: The Serve Must Be Underhand
The server must hit the ball with an underhand stroke. This means the paddle moves in an upward motion. The paddle head should be below the wrist when it hits the ball. The ball must be hit below the waist or navel level.
This rule helps keep the serve easy and fair for all players.
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Rule 2: Server’s Foot Placement
The server must stand behind the baseline. At least one foot must stay behind this line. You cannot step on or over the baseline before hitting the ball. Both feet can stay behind the baseline, but one foot is enough.
This rule stops the server from moving too close to the net early.
Rule 3: The Serve Must Go Diagonally
The ball must travel to the opponent’s service box that is diagonal to the server. The court is divided by a net and lines. The ball should land in the opposite box to the server’s side.
If the ball lands outside this box, the serve is not legal.
Rule 4: Avoid the Non-Volley Zone on Serve
The non-volley zone, called the “kitchen,” is a special area near the net. The serve must not land in this zone or on its lines. It must land in the correct service box behind the kitchen.
This rule keeps players from standing too close to the net at the start.
Rule 5: Only One Serve Attempt
The server gets only one try to make a legal serve. If the serve is wrong, the other team gets the ball. There are no second chances like in some other sports.
Even if the ball hits the net and lands in the right box, it counts as a good serve. This is called a “let” serve and is played as normal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Serve in Pickleball
Follow these steps to serve correctly:
- Stand behind the baseline with at least one foot.
- Hold the paddle so its head is below your wrist.
- Hold the ball in your other hand in front of your body.
- Drop or toss the ball gently if you want a drop serve.
- Hit the ball underhand below your waist.
- Make sure the ball travels diagonally to the right service box.
- Let the ball land in the correct service box, avoiding the kitchen.
- Get ready for the opponent to return the ball.
Types of Serves in Pickleball
There are two main types of serves you can use in pickleball:
| Serve Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Volley Serve | This is the regular serve. The ball is hit in the air without bouncing. |
| Drop Serve | The ball is dropped and allowed to bounce before hitting it. |
Both serves follow the same basic rules about where and how to hit the ball.
Understanding the One Bounce Rule
In pickleball, the ball must bounce once on each side before players can hit it in the air. But this rule does not apply to the serve itself. The serve can be a volley serve or a drop serve.
After the serve, the ball must bounce once on the receiver’s side. Then the receiver hits it back.
Common Mistakes When Serving
New players often make these mistakes:
- Serving overhand instead of underhand.
- Stepping on or over the baseline before hitting.
- Serving to the wrong side of the court.
- Landing the ball in the kitchen or outside the service box.
- Trying to serve twice after a fault.
Avoid these mistakes to keep the game fair and fun.
Why Are Serving Rules Important?
These rules make sure everyone plays the same way. They keep the game safe and fair. The rules also help players learn good skills.
By following the serving rules, you can enjoy the game more and play better.
Summary of Pickleball Serving Rules
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Underhand | Hit the ball below the waist with paddle head below wrist. |
| Foot Behind Baseline | At least one foot must be behind the baseline when serving. |
| Diagonal Serve | Serve to the opposite service box on the other side. |
| Ball Must Land Correctly | Ball must land in the service box, not in the kitchen. |
| One Serve Attempt | Only one try per serve; lets are played, no re-serve. |
Credit: pickleballrules.co.uk
Final Thoughts
Serving in pickleball is simple but important. The rules keep the game fun and fair. If you follow these rules, you will enjoy playing more.
Practice your serve often. Stand behind the baseline, hit underhand, and aim diagonally. Remember to land the ball in the right service box. Try both volley and drop serves to see what works best for you.
Pickleball is a great sport for all ages. Learning the serving rules helps you play with friends and family. So, get your paddle ready and start serving!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The 5 Rules Of Serving In Pickleball?
The 5 pickleball serving rules are: serve underhand, stand behind baseline, serve diagonally, ball must land in opposite service court, and only one serve attempt allowed.
What Are The Rules For A Legal Pickleball Serve?
A legal pickleball serve must be underhand, paddle below the wrist, from behind the baseline. Serve diagonally into the opponent’s service box, avoiding the non-volley zone. Only one serve attempt is allowed. The ball can be hit after a bounce (drop serve) or directly.
What Are The New Rules For Serving In Pickleball?
The new pickleball serve rules require an underhand serve from behind the baseline. Serve diagonally into the opposite service box. Only one serve attempt is allowed. The ball must clear the non-volley zone and land in the correct service court.
Drop serves are permitted without spin.
How To Serve Pickleball Step By Step?
Stand behind the baseline with one foot. Hold the paddle below the wrist. Serve underhand diagonally to the opposite service box. Ensure the ball lands outside the non-volley zone. Only one serve attempt is allowed per turn.