The two bounce rule in pickleball requires that the ball must bounce once on each side of the net before players can volley it from the air. This rule applies to the serve and the return of serve, encouraging longer rallies and strategic play.
The Two bounce rule Explained
The two bounce rule is a fundamental component of pickleball that adds a unique strategic layer to the game. This rule is designed to prevent players from dominating the game purely with aggressive serves and volleys, thus promoting longer rallies and more engaging gameplay.
Here’s a breakdown of how the two bounce rule works:
Definition
The two bounce rule mandates that after the ball is served, it must bounce once on the receiving side, and then once again on the serving side, before it can be volleyed (hit out of the air) by either team.
In simpler terms, each side must let the ball bounce once before hitting it without letting it bounce (volleying).
What’s its Purpose?
- Promotes Fairness: By requiring the ball to bounce on each side of the net before volleys are allowed, the rule diminishes the advantage that could be gained from powerful serves and aggressive net play.
- Encourages Strategy: Players must think strategically about their positioning and shot selection, especially in the initial exchanges of the rally.
- Levels the Playing Field: This rule helps bridge the gap between players of varying skill levels, making the game more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
How to implement it?
- Serve: The server must hit the ball so that it bounces once in the correct service area on the opposite side of the net.
- Return of Serve: The receiving team must then return the serve in such a way that the ball bounces once on the serving team’s side.
- Continuation of Play: After these initial two bounces, play continues with players allowed to either volley the ball (hit it out of the air before it bounces) or play it off a bounce until the point is won or lost.
Impact on Gameplay
The two bounce rule effectively prevents players from rushing to the net immediately after serving or returning the serve, fostering a game that is less about sheer power and more about precision, strategy, and skill.
It ensures that the game remains accessible to players of all ages and abilities, emphasizing the importance of strategy over speed and strength.
Is the Two-Bounce Rule the Same as the Double Bounce Rule?
No, they are not the same.
- The Two-Bounce Rule is a specific regulation that requires the ball to bounce once on each side of the court at the beginning of each point: once in the receiving team’s court after the serve and once in the serving team’s court after the return. This rule is designed to prevent players from volleying the ball immediately after the serve and return, promoting fair play and strategic rallies.
- Double Bounce refers to a different situation where the ball bounces twice on the same side of the court during a rally, which results in a fault according to Rule 7.E. in the official USA Pickleball rulebook. This fault indicates a failure to return the ball properly, leading to the end of the point.
Can the second bounce in pickleball land in the kitchen?
Yes, the second bounce in pickleball can land in the kitchen (also known as the non-volley zone). The two-bounce rule requires that the ball must bounce once on each side of the net at the start of the play: first in the receiver’s court after the serve, and then in the server’s court after the return.
There is no restriction on where the ball must bounce on either side, so it can legally bounce in the kitchen.
