Singles versus Doubles in Pickleball

"The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning." - Pelé

Pickleball is a versatile sport that can be enjoyed in both singles and doubles formats, each offering a unique experience and set of challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, understanding the differences between singles and doubles can help you improve your strategy and enjoy the game even more. Let’s dive into the key distinctions between these two formats and how they impact the way you play.

1. Court Coverage and Movement

Singles: In singles, each player is responsible for covering the entire court, which demands a high level of endurance, agility, and speed. You’ll need to be prepared to chase down every shot and sprint side-to-side with oftentimes non-stop running, as there’s no partner to help you cover the ground. This makes positioning and anticipation critical components of singles strategy as this game.

Doubles: Doubles play, on the other hand, involves two players on each side of the net, allowing for shared court coverage. This reduces the physical demands compared to singles but adds a layer of complexity in terms of communication and teamwork. Players must coordinate their movements, often sticking to their designated side or switching positions based on the ball play or when one play is lefthanded.

2. Serving and Scoring

Singles: In singles, the serving and scoring system is straightforward. The server alternates sides after each point, serving from the right side when their score is even and from the left side when their score is odd. The score is called with just two numbers: the server’s score first, followed by the receiver’s score.

Doubles: Doubles adds an additional element with the inclusion of a second server. The serving team has two chances to serve (one for each player) before the serve passes to the other team. Scoring is called with three numbers: the serving team’s score, the receiving team’s score, and the server number (either 1 or 2). Understanding this system is key to keeping the game organized and fair.

3. Strategy and Playstyle

Singles: Singles play is often more aggressive and fast-paced. With more space to cover, players tend to focus on deep shots and sharp angles to move their opponent around the court. Precision and stamina are crucial, as every shot counts, and there’s less room for error.

Doubles: Doubles strategy is more about placement and teamwork. Players often use a combination of soft shots (like dinks) and hard drives to outmaneuver their opponents. Communication is vital, as players must decide who will take each shot, especially on balls hit down the middle. The game’s pace can vary, but the emphasis is on strategic placement and quick reflexes.

4. Shot Selection

Singles: In singles, players rely heavily on baseline rallies, passing shots, and lobs to keep their opponent on the move. The goal is often to force your opponent out of position, creating an opening for a winning shot.

Doubles: Doubles offers more opportunities for net play, including volleys and dinks. Since court coverage is shared, players can afford to take more risks with aggressive shots and poaching (when a player intercepts a shot intended for their partner). The focus is on teamwork and setting up your partner for the finishing shot.

5. Physical and Mental Demands

Singles: The physical demands of singles are much higher, as you’re responsible for covering the entire court. This requires excellent conditioning, quick footwork, speed, and mental toughness to stay focused and manage fatigue throughout the match.

Doubles: While doubles may be less physically demanding, it requires strong communication and a deep understanding of your partner’s playstyle. The mental challenge lies in coordinating with your partner, staying in sync, and adapting to the dynamic nature of doubles play.

Game Point

Whether you prefer the intense, fast-paced nature of singles or the strategic, teamwork-focused play of doubles, pickleball offers something for everyone. Understanding the differences between these formats can help you tailor your approach and enhance your overall game. So whether you’re hitting the court solo or with a partner, embrace the unique challenges each format offers and enjoy the game to the fullest.

See you on the courts!