If you’ve ever stepped onto a pickleball court for the first time, you’ve probably felt the excitement—the quick volleys, the friendly competition, and the satisfying pop of the paddle. But then, just as the game begins, you hear someone call out a score that makes you pause: “zero-zero-two.”
Wait, two? Where did that third number come from?
For many newcomers, pickleball’s scoring rules, especially the starting score, can feel like the game's biggest puzzle. It’s one of the most common points of confusion for beginner pickleball players. The good news is that once you understand the logic behind it, this quirky rule becomes second nature.
This guide will break down exactly what 0-0-2 means, why the game starts this way, and how mastering this single concept builds a strong foundation for your entire pickleball journey. Let’s unravel the mystery of the starting serve in pickleball.
What the Starting Score 0-0-2 Really Means
In doubles pickleball, the score is always called out as three numbers. Let’s look at what each number represents:
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First Number: The serving team’s score.
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Second Number: The receiving team’s score.
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Third Number: The server number (either 1 or 2).
So, a score of "5-3-1" means the serving team has 5 points, the receiving team has 3 points, and the first server on the serving team is about to hit the ball.
But at the very beginning of the game, the score is called as "0-0-2." This is the only time you’ll hear this specific sequence. The reason is simple: to ensure fairness. In pickleball, only the serving team can score points. Giving the first team two servers would create a significant advantage right from the start.
To balance this, the first serving team of the entire game gets only one service turn. That player is designated as the "second server" by default. If they lose the rally, the service immediately passes to the other team—an event known as a "side out." This unique starting rule ensures that neither team has an unfair edge from the beginning.
How “Side Out” Works in Pickleball Doubles
The term "side out" simply means that the serving team has lost its turn, and the serve now "sides out" to the opponents.
In a typical service turn (after the game's very first serve), both players on a team get a chance to serve. The first server continues serving, switching sides of the court after each point scored, until their team loses a rally. Then, the serve passes to their partner, the second server. When the second server’s team loses a rally, it’s a side out, and the serve goes to the other team.
However, during the very first service turn of the game (starting at 0-0-2), there is no first server. When the designated server loses the rally, it’s an immediate side out. After this initial turn, the game proceeds with both teams getting two service opportunities per side out.
Why This Rule Keeps the Game Fair
This beginner pickleball rule is a clever design element that maintains balance. Pickleball's rules are carefully crafted to prevent either the serving or receiving team from having too much power.
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Advantage for Servers: Only the serving team can score points.
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Advantage for Receivers: The serve must be underhand, and the serving team must let the return bounce (the two-bounce rule).
The pickleball starting score of 0-0-2 is a key part of this balance. By limiting the first team to a single server, it mitigates the advantage of getting to serve first and gives the receiving team a quicker opportunity to start scoring. This structure promotes consistency and fairness across all games, from casual park play to professional tournaments.
Common Mistakes When Starting a Game
Forgetting the understanding of 0-0-2 is common, but it can lead to confusion and incorrect scoring. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:
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Starting at 0-0-1: Many beginners instinctively think the game starts with the first server, but remember, it’s always 0-0-2.
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Serving from the wrong side: The first serve of the game always comes from the right side of the court (the "even" side).
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Both teammates serving in the first turn: Only one player on the first serving team gets to serve. After that first side out, both players on each team will get a turn.
Tips for Remembering the 0-0-2 Rule
Don't worry, this rule will become automatic with practice. Until then, here are a few tricks to help you remember:
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Create a mental checklist: Before the first serve, quickly confirm: Score is 0-0-2. I’m serving from the right. We only get one server this turn.
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Use verbal cues: As the server, calling the score "Zero-Zero-Two" aloud reinforces the rule for everyone on the court. Some players even say "Zero-Zero-Start" as a reminder.
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Practice starting a game: Spend a few minutes just practicing the first service sequence to build muscle memory.
Bonus Tip: Choosing the Right Paddle to Start Strong
Feeling confident with the rules is one part of the equation; feeling confident with your equipment is another. For beginners, having a paddle that offers good control and a comfortable feel can make a huge difference, especially on serves. The starting serve in pickleball sets the tone for the rally, so you want a paddle that helps you place the ball accurately.
Paddles with a larger sweet spot and a surface designed for control can help you execute more consistent serves. When you’re not worried about mishitting the ball, you can focus more on the game’s strategy and rules.
Master the First Serve—and the Rest Gets Easier
The pickleball scoring explained here might seem a bit quirky at first, but it’s a fundamental part of what makes the game strategic and fun. Every experienced player was once a beginner who had to learn what 0-0-2 means.
Once you master this concept, you’ll feel more confident on the court and be able to focus on improving your skills. Understanding the rules is the first step to becoming a more strategic player. Before you know it, you’ll be the one explaining the pickleball starting score to the next newcomer.
Ready to play with confidence? Start strong—shop Voxl Pickleball paddles for beginners and find the perfect gear to match your growing skills.
Related Questions
Why do you start at 0-0-2 in pickleball?
You start at 0-0-2 to minimize the natural advantage of being the first team to serve. By giving the first team only one server, the pickleball side out rule kicks in faster, giving the other team a chance to score sooner and keeping the game balanced from the outset.
What is a side out in pickleball scoring?
A side out occurs when the serving team loses a rally and their turn to serve is over. The serve then "sides out" to the opposing team. Except for the first serve of the game, a side out happens after both the first and second servers on a team have lost their service rally.
Can both teammates serve in the first round?
No. Only one player on the team that serves first gets to serve. This player is considered the "second server," which is why the score starts at 0-0-2. After that initial service turn, both players on each team will get a chance to serve.
What happens if you start the game incorrectly?
If you start the game with the wrong score (like 0-0-1) or from the wrong side, it’s best to stop and correct it as soon as the error is noticed. In casual play, players usually just reset the point. In official matches, specific rules apply depending on when the error is caught.
How do you decide who serves first in pickleball?
According to the official USA Pickleball rulebook, any fair method can be used. Common methods include flipping a coin, spinning a paddle, or playing a single rally to determine which team serves first.