The difference between pickleball singles and doubles goes far beyond just the number of players on each side. While both formats share the same court and basic rules, they offer two completely different play styles. In singles, it’s all about speed, endurance, and covering the entire court on your own. In doubles, strategy, communication, and teamwork take center stage. Each format brings its own challenges and rewards from court positioning and shot selection to physical demands and pace of play.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences to help you choose the format that best fits your playing style and goals.
Overview of Pickleball Singles and Doubles
Pickleball is played on a 20×44-foot court with a net dividing it into two halves. The objective is simply to score points by hitting a perforated ball over the net and into your opponent’s court without them returning it. Singles pickleball pits one player against another, while doubles involve two teams of two players each. Both formats follow the same basic scoring system typically to 11 points, win by 2 but the dynamics shift dramatically based on the number of players.
Key Difference between pickleball singles and doubles
1. Number of Players
The most obvious distinction is the number of participants:
- Singles: 1 player per side (1 vs. 1).
- Doubles: 2 players per side (2 vs. 2).
This fundamental difference influences everything from court coverage to strategy, making each format a unique experience.
2. Court Coverage and Movement
Court coverage is a major factor that sets singles and doubles apart.
- Singles:
- You’re responsible for the entire 20×44-foot court alone.
- Requires greater mobility, stamina, and agility to cover all areas.
- Players often move side-to-side and front-to-back more aggressively.
- Doubles:
- Each player covers half the court (roughly 20×22 feet per person).
- Less individual movement is needed, as teammates share responsibilities.
- Positioning is more static, with players typically staying on their designated side.
In singles, you’re constantly on the move, while doubles allows for a more coordinated, team-oriented approach.
3. Physical Demands
The physical intensity varies significantly between the two formats.
- Singles:
- Highly demanding due to solo court coverage.
- Tests endurance, speed, and quick reflexes.
- Ideal for players with strong athleticism and cardiovascular fitness.
- Doubles:
- Less physically taxing since effort is split between partners.
- Focuses more on precision and teamwork than raw stamina.
- Suited for a wider range of ages and fitness levels.
If you love a workout, singles might be your pick. For a more relaxed pace, doubles could be the way to go.
4. Strategy and Gameplay Style
Strategy shifts dramatically depending on whether you’re playing alone or with a partner.
- Singles:
- Relies heavily on power and placement to outmaneuver a single opponent.
- Aggressive shots like deep serves and passing shots dominate.
- Players aim to exploit gaps in the opponent’s positioning.
- Doubles:
- Emphasizes teamwork, communication, and finesse.
- Dinking (soft shots near the net) and volleys are more common.
- Strategy revolves around setting up your partner and forcing opponent errors.
Singles is a battle of individual skill, while doubles is a chess match of coordination.
5. Serving and Scoring Rules
While the basic rules are consistent, there are slight differences in how serving plays out.
- Singles:
- The server calls out two numbers their score followed by the opponent’s score (e.g., “3-2”).
- The server alternates sides (right or left) depending on their score right side for even scores, left for odd.
- Only one serve attempt per turn, unless a fault occurs.
- Doubles:
- The server calls out three numbers their team’s score, the opposing team’s score, and the server number (1 or 2), e.g., “4-3-1.”
- The serving team gets two chances to score (one per player), except on the first serve of the game, which is a single attempt.
- Players stay on their respective sides, with the server’s position tied to the score.
The serving sequence in doubles adds a layer of complexity, but the core scoring to 11, win by 2 remains unchanged.
6. Pace of the Game
The speed and rhythm of the play differ noticeably.
- Singles:
- Faster-paced due to longer rallies and more ground to cover.
- Points often end quickly with powerful shots or errors.
- Doubles:
- Slower and more controlled, with an emphasis on dinking and net play.
- Rallies tend to last longer as teams work to create openings.
Singles is a sprint doubles is a marathon of patience.
7. Social and Competitive Aspects
The social dynamic is another key distinction.
- Singles:
- A solitary challenge perfect for competitive players who thrive on one-on-one matchups.
- Less interaction, more focus on personal performance.
- Doubles:
- A social experience that fosters camaraderie and teamwork.
- Popular in recreational settings and mixed-skill groups.
Doubles is the go-to for casual play, while singles attract those seeking a tougher test.
Singles vs. Doubles: A Quick Comparison Table
| Aspect | Singles | Doubles |
|---|---|---|
| Players | 1 per side | 2 per side |
| Court Coverage | Full court (20×44 ft) | Half court per player (20×22 ft) |
| Physical Demand | High (speed, stamina) | Moderate (team effort) |
| Strategy | Power, placement | Teamwork, finesse |
| Serving | 2-number call, 1 serve | 3-number call, 2 serves (except 1st) |
| Pace | Fast, aggressive | Slower, controlled |
| Social Factor | Individual focus | Team-oriented, social |
Which Should You Choose: Singles or Doubles?
Deciding between pickleball singles and doubles depends on your goals, fitness level, and preferences:
- Choose Singles If:
- You’re highly athletic and enjoy a physical challenge.
- You prefer a fast-paced, competitive game.
- You want to test your individual skills.
- Choose Doubles If:
- You enjoy teamwork and social interaction.
- You prefer a strategic, less physically demanding game.
- You’re playing with friends or family.
Both formats are thriving in 2025, with singles gaining traction among younger, fitness-focused players and doubles remaining the dominant choice for recreational and tournament play.
Latest Trends in Pickleball Singles and Doubles (2025)
As of April 2025, pickleball continues to evolve. Singles is seeing a surge in popularity at competitive levels, with professional players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters showcasing its intensity in tournaments like the PPA Tour. Doubles, however, remains the backbone of pickleball’s social appeal, with mixed doubles events drawing huge crowds. The rise of pickleball-specific training programs has also leveled up both formats, emphasizing agility for singles and communication drills for doubles.
Tips to Excel in Singles and Doubles
For Singles:
- Work on your footwork quick lateral movements are key.
- Master deep serves to push your opponent back.
- Stay unpredictable with shot placement.
For Doubles:
- Communicate constantly with your partner call out shots like “mine” or “yours.”
- Practice dinking to control the net.
- Coordinate positioning to avoid leaving gaps.
Conclusion
The difference between pickleball singles and doubles boils down to players, physicality, strategy, and vibe. Singles offers a high-energy, solo showdown that tests your limits, while doubles delivers a cooperative, tactical experience perfect for social play. Whether you’re smashing winners alone or syncing up with a partner, both versions showcase why pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in 2025. So, grab your paddle, hit the court, and decide which style suits you best singles or doubles, the choice is yours!
