Pickleball is a game of quick rallies, friendly competition, and a unique scoring system that can sometimes feel like a puzzle. If you’ve ever stood on the court, paddle in hand, wondering why you keep hearing three numbers called out before every serve, you’re not alone. For many beginners, calling the score is more intimidating than returning a powerful smash.
But what if you could call the score with the same confidence you bring to your dinks?
This guide is designed to do just that. We'll break down the three-number scoring system used in pickleball doubles, explain what each number means, and walk through how to apply it correctly. By the end, you'll understand why proper score calling is essential for a smooth, fair game and be ready to announce the score like a seasoned player.
Why Score Calling Matters in Pickleball Doubles
Proper score calling is the bedrock of an organized and fair pickleball game. When players announce the score clearly and correctly before each serve, it keeps everyone on the same page, minimizes disputes, and allows the game to flow without unnecessary interruptions. It builds a rhythm and ensures that the focus remains on the rally, not on trying to remember who scored the last point.
For new players, mastering this skill is a huge step toward feeling more comfortable and confident on the court. It’s common for beginners to skip this step or misstate the score, which can quickly lead to confusion about who is serving, which side they should be on, and whether the game is being played fairly. Learning to call the score isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about taking an active role in the game and demonstrating your understanding of how it’s played.
What the 3 Numbers Mean in Pickleball Scoring
In doubles, the score is always announced as a sequence of three numbers. Let’s break down what each number represents.
The 3-Number System: [Your Score] – [Opponent’s Score] – [Server Number]
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First Number: This is the serving team’s score.
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Second Number: This is the receiving team’s score.
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Third Number: This is the server number (either "1" or "2"), which indicates which of the two players on the serving team is currently serving.
For example, if the score is called as “5-3-2,” it means:
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The serving team has 5 points.
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The receiving team has 3 points.
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The serving team is on its second server for that service turn.
Think of it as a quick status update before each point begins. It tells everyone exactly where the game stands, whose turn it is, and what’s at stake in the upcoming rally.
When and How to Call the Score
The rules around score calling are straightforward, and following them helps create a consistent and respectful playing environment.
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Who calls the score? The player who is serving is always responsible for calling the score.
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When do you call it? The score must be called loudly and clearly before the serve. It should be the last thing you do before beginning your serving motion.
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How do you call it? Speak with confidence. Your voice should be loud enough for your partner, your opponents, and any nearby spectators to hear. This prevents any confusion and ensures that if there’s a disagreement about the score, it can be addressed before the point starts.
How the Server Number Works—And Why It’s Confusing at First
The third number—the server number—is often the most confusing part for beginners. Here’s how it works:
When your team wins the serve back from your opponents, the player on the right side of the court becomes Server 1. They will continue serving, switching sides with their partner after each point scored, until they lose a rally. When they lose the rally (a fault), the serve doesn't go to the other team yet. Instead, it goes to their partner, who becomes Server 2.
Server 2 then serves until they lose a rally. Only after Server 2 loses the rally does a "side-out" occur, and the serve passes to the opposing team.
The one exception to this rule happens at the very start of the game. To minimize the advantage of serving first, the first serving team only gets one service turn. Therefore, the game begins with the score call “0-0-2.” The "2" indicates that this team is already on its "second" and final server for this turn. Once they lose the rally, the serve goes to the other team, who will then get their full two serves.
Common Score Calling Mistakes Beginners Make
Learning any new skill involves a few bumps along the way. Here are some of the most common score-calling errors to watch out for:
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Mixing up the scores: Accidentally stating the receiver’s score first. Remember, it's always your score, their score, then the server number.
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Forgetting the third number: In doubles, announcing only two numbers (e.g., "5-3") is incomplete and leads to confusion.
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Not announcing before the serve: Serving the ball and then calling the score is incorrect. The call must come first.
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Saying the wrong server number: This often happens after a long rally when players forget whether it was the first or second server who just lost the point.
Practice Tips to Build Score Calling Confidence
Like any other aspect of pickleball, confidence in score calling comes with practice. Here are a few ways to get more comfortable:
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Repetition: Before your next game, practice calling out imaginary scores with a partner. Go through the sequence of winning and losing points to get used to how the server number changes.
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Use an app or wristband: There are apps and simple score-tracking wristbands that can help you keep track of the score during a game, taking the mental pressure off.
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Watch games and call the score: When you’re watching other people play, try to call the score in your head (or quietly to yourself) as the game progresses. This is a low-stakes way to reinforce the patterns.
From Score-Calling to Skill-Building: Why Gear Matters Too
As you build confidence in the rules and flow of the game, you'll start to notice other areas where you can improve. Feeling good on the court isn't just about knowing the score; it's also about having equipment that feels right in your hands. A good paddle can make a world of difference, especially for beginners who are still developing their touch and control.
As you learn the fundamentals, consider whether your gear is helping or hindering your progress. Beginner-friendly paddles, like those from Voxl Pickleball, are designed with a larger sweet spot and a balance of power and control, making it easier to execute shots consistently while you focus on strategy and rules.
Get Confident on the Court—Starting With the Score
The three-number scoring system in pickleball might seem complicated at first, but it's a logical system that quickly becomes second nature with practice. By taking the time to learn it, you're not just following the rules—you're empowering yourself to be a more engaged and confident player.
Remember to call the score clearly before every serve, keep track of your server number, and don't be afraid to pause and confirm with other players if you get lost. Every game is an opportunity to practice.
Ready to take your confidence to the next level? Browse Voxl Pickleball paddles built for confident play.
Related Questions
Why does pickleball have three numbers in the score?
In doubles, the three numbers represent the serving team's score, the receiving team's score, and the server number (1 or 2). This system is necessary to keep track of which of the two players on the serving team has the serve.
What is the difference between server 1 and server 2 in pickleball?
When a team earns the serve, the player on the right side becomes Server 1. They serve until they lose a rally. The serve then passes to their partner, who becomes Server 2. After Server 2 loses a rally, the serve goes to the other team.
Who is supposed to call the score in a pickleball game?
The player who is currently serving is always responsible for calling the score out loud before they begin their serving motion.
Can you replay a point if the score was called wrong?
According to official rules, if a player stops a rally to challenge an incorrect score call, the point is replayed with the correct score. However, this must be done before the third shot of the rally. If the score was actually correct, the player who stopped play loses the rally.
How can I remember the pickleball score more easily?
Practice is key. You can also use score-keeping wristbands or phone apps. Another helpful trick is to associate your team's score with your court position: if the starting server is on the right side, your score should be even. If they're on the left, it should be odd.