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What is the double bounce rule in pickleball?

The double bounce rule requires the ball to bounce once on the serving side and once on the receiving side before either team may hit it in the air.

In pickleball, the double bounce rule states that after the serve is made, the ball must bounce one time on the receiver's side of the court, and the receiver's return must also bounce one time on the server's side before any player is allowed to hit the ball in the air (called a volley). Only after both bounces have occurred can players hit volleys for the rest of the rally.

This rule exists to prevent one team from gaining an unfair advantage immediately after the serve. Without it, a server with a strong first shot could angle the ball in a way that makes it nearly impossible for the receiving team to compete on the first or second stroke. The double bounce requirement gives the serving team and receiving team equal opportunity to position themselves for the rally, making serves less of a decisive weapon and keeping the emphasis on skill and strategy rather than serving power alone.

The rule applies to all competitive and recreational play at pickleball facilities across the Klang Valley. Understanding and enforcing the double bounce rule is essential for fair, consistent play whether you are practicing at a local court or competing in organized matches.