USA Pickleball

The ball is hit into the net or out of bounds.; A volley is hit from the NVZ or momentum carries the player into the NVZ after a volley.; The ball bounces twice on one side before being returned.

The pickleball court is a rectangle measuring 20 feet wide by 44 feet long (6.10 m × 13.41 m), the same dimensions for both singles and doubles play. The court is bisected by the net, resulting in two identical halves of 20 feet × 22 feet.

Baselines: The lines at the back of the court, parallel to the net, 22 feet from the net.; Sidelines: The lines running perpendicular to the net along the 44-foot length of the court.; Centerline: Divides the area behind the NVZ into the right and left service courts.

Playing surfaces must be free of cracks, debris, standing water, and other hazards. Outdoor courts are subject to weather conditions; play should be suspended during rain, thunderstorms, or when the court surface is wet.

USA Pickleball strongly recommends that all players wear protective eyewear during play. The pickleball ball is small, hard, and can travel at speeds exceeding 40 mph in competitive play.

Players should wear proper court shoes designed for lateral movement and traction on the playing surface. Running shoes, sandals, and open-toed footwear are inappropriate and increase the risk of ankle injuries, falls, and foot injuries.

Pickleball is played in two formats: Doubles: Two players per side. This is the most popular format and the standard for most recreational and competitive play. Partners share the court and alternate service positions.; Singles: One player per side. Singles pickleball uses the same court dimensio...

During outdoor play in hot conditions, tournament directors are encouraged to implement heat protocols. These may include extended rest periods between games, mandatory hydration breaks during games (at 6 points in a game to 11), shaded rest areas...

A hindrance is any action by a player that interferes with the opponent's ability to play the ball. If a referee determines that a hindrance has occurred, the rally is replayed (a "let" is called).

A player volleys the ball while touching the NVZ or the NVZ line.; A player's momentum after a volley carries them into the NVZ, including touching any NVZ line.; A player's paddle, hat, sunglasses, or any other item falls into the NVZ during or after a volley.