How Scoring in Pickleball is Done and Called Out

Scoring in pickleball doubles is made up of three numbers: the serving team’s score, the receiving team’s score, and the server number (either 1 or 2). This third number is what throws most players off. For example, a score of “5-3-2” means the serving team has 5 points, the receiving team has 3, and the second server is serving. If that player loses the point, it results in a side out, and the receiving team gets the ball. This format ensures that each team has two chances to serve—one per player—before possession changes.

Scoring in pickleball is unique and often confusing for new players, especially in doubles play. Unlike sports where both sides can score at any time, only the serving team can score a point in traditional pickleball scoring. This system keeps the rallies strategic and the game structured. Each time the serving team wins a rally, they earn a point. If the serving team loses the rally, they lose the serve (not a point), and it either passes to their partner (in doubles) or to the opponent (in singles).

In the UK’s growing pickleball community, especially at clubs and leagues where new players are joining regularly, understanding and properly calling out the score before each serve is essential. It avoids confusion and makes matches smoother. Failure to call the score correctly or clearly can even result in faults during tournament play. So whether you’re playing socially in Leeds or competing in a Surrey league match, getting the scoring format right is a foundational skill.

Scoring and Calling Out in Doubles Pickleball

In doubles pickleball, scoring is based on traditional rally play where only the serving team can earn points. Each time a team wins a rally while serving, their score increases by one. If they lose a rally, the serve goes to the other player on their team (the second server). Only after both players have lost their serve does the opposing team get the opportunity to serve.

Here’s what a doubles score might look like:

6-4-1 – Your team has 6 points, the other team has 4, and the first server is serving.
6-4-2 – Same score, but now the second server is up.
Side out – If the second server loses the rally, the opposing team gains serve but does not score a point yet.

This three-part score is always called before the serve, and in non-officiated matches, it’s the server’s responsibility to call it loudly and clearly. If you forget the server number, ask your partner or quickly recall whether you’ve switched sides after winning a point. If you did, you’re still server 1. If not, you’ve rotated to server 2.

🔥 Key takeaway: In doubles, the three-number score keeps track of the game state, and calling it correctly ensures fairness and flow.

Scoring and Calling Out in Singles Pickleball

In singles, scoring is slightly simpler. Since there’s only one server per side, the score consists of two numbers: the server’s score and the receiver’s score. The server does not need to announce a server number—only the current score for each player.

Example:
4-2 – This means the server has 4 points, and the receiver has 2.

Key scoring rules in singles:

✅ The server switches sides depending on their score (even score = right side, odd score = left side).
✅ Points can only be scored while serving, just like in doubles.
✅ If the server loses the rally, it’s a side out, and their opponent becomes the server.
✅ Score must be called before every serve, and clearly enough that the opponent hears it.

While simpler in format, singles scoring still requires attention, especially when switching sides after winning points. Many UK players learning singles for the first time struggle with positioning and correct score calling, but these skills come with practice.

🔥 Key takeaway: In singles, score is called as two numbers—yours first, then your opponent’s—with the server’s side determined by whether their score is even or odd.

Common Scoring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Scoring confusion can cause arguments, delays, or even result in unintended faults—especially in tournaments or league play. New players in the UK often ask, “Who serves now?” or “Why are we on this side?” when the game gets tense. Understanding how to score and call out properly reduces stress and keeps play moving.

Common mistakes:

❌ Forgetting to call the score before serving.
❌ Calling the wrong server number in doubles.
❌ Mixing up team scores, especially after long rallies.
❌ Serving from the wrong side of the court, due to misunderstanding score parity.
❌ Thinking both teams can score, which only applies in rally scoring formats, not traditional.

How to fix them:

✅ Establish a habit: before every serve, pause, check your side, and call the score clearly.
✅ If you’re unsure, ask your partner (in doubles) or your opponent to reconfirm the score.
✅ Use “even-right, odd-left” logic to track your position.
✅ If a mistake happens, correct it immediately—if not served yet, no fault is called.

🔥 Key takeaway: Knowing how to keep and call score avoids confusion, keeps games fair, and ensures smoother play in both casual and competitive pickleball.

Scoring in UK Pickleball Clubs and Tournaments

Across the UK, pickleball clubs and leagues generally follow the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) or Pickleball England rules, which use traditional scoring. In tournaments, players must call the score before every serve, and failure to do so correctly could lead to a warning or loss of serve.

Key UK-specific tips:

✔ Score calling should be loud, clear, and consistent.
✔ Use standard format: your team’s score – opponent’s score – server number.
✔ In league play, some matches use rally scoring for quicker games. This must be clarified before play starts.
✔ In beginner sessions, coaches often pause games to explain scoring logic, so don’t be afraid to ask.

Pickleball in the UK is still growing, and helping players learn the rhythm of scoring and server rotation is part of building confidence and a stronger community. Clubs are increasingly offering scoring tutorials, signage, and friendly matches where new players can practice without pressure.

🔥 Key takeaway: Whether you’re in a London league or playing socially in Manchester, learning to score and call correctly is an essential part of playing pickleball in the UK.

Final Thoughts: Scoring in Pickleball and Why Its the Heart of the Game

The scoring system in pickleball is what gives the game its strategic depth and unique rhythm. It rewards patience, communication, and smart serving, rather than brute force. Understanding how scoring works and how to call it properly is essential for every player—from newcomers at local clubs to seasoned competitors in UK tournaments.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Only the serving side can score in traditional pickleball.
✔ In doubles, always call three numbers: your score – their score – server number.
✔ In singles, call just the two scores, with yours first.
✔ Switch sides only after winning a point on your serve (doubles) or after every point you win while serving (singles).
✔ Stay sharp, communicate with your partner, and call the score loudly before every serve.

By mastering the scoring language of pickleball, you’ll not only avoid confusion—you’ll also play with greater confidence and tactical awareness.

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