What Is the Two Bounce Rule in Pickleball

If you’re new to pickleball, you may have heard about the “Two Bounce Rule” or the “Double Bounce Rule” and wondered what it is all about. The two bounce rule is one of the fundamental rules of pickleball and distinguishes the game from other racquet sports. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the two bounce rules, including its history, how it works, and how to avoid committing a fault.

History of the Two Bounce Rule in Pickleball

Before we dive into the details of the two bounce rules, let’s first understand its history. The rule was first introduced in the early days of pickleball, but it was originally known as the “Two Bounce Rule” 1. However, in 2018, the official rule book of pickleball was updated, and the rule was renamed to the “Double Bounce Rule” 2. The name change was due to a misconception among players that the ball must bounce twice before hitting, which is not the case.

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Understanding the Two Bounce Rule in Pickleball

The two bounce rule in pickleball is simple but essential to gameplay. After the ball is served, each side must make one groundstroke before volleying the ball 3. This means that the ball must bounce twice before a player can hit it. The rule applies to both the serving and receiving sides.

How to Avoid Committing a Fault

Failing to comply with the two bounce rules results in a fault. A fault occurs when a player commits an error or violates a rule, and the opposing side earns a point. In the case of the two bounce rule, if a player hits the ball before it bounces twice, they commit a fault. It’s essential to understand that the rule applies to all shots, including serves, groundstrokes, and volleys.

To avoid committing a fault, players must be patient and let the ball bounce twice before hitting it. It’s worth noting that if the ball bounces twice on its own, it’s considered a dead ball, and no fault is committed. Additionally, if the ball touches the net and lands in the proper service court, the two bounce rule is still in play 4.

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Advanced Strategies for the Two Bounce Rule

While the two bounce rules may seem straightforward, it requires practice and skill to master. Professional pickleball players use advanced strategies to take advantage of the two bounce rules. Here are some of the advanced strategies you can use:

1. Drop Shots

A drop shot is a shot that intentionally lands short in the opponent’s court, making it difficult for them to return. Professional players use drop shots to force their opponents to let the ball bounce twice, creating an opportunity for them to attack.

2. Third Shot Drops

A third shot drop is a shot that is hit softly and lands in the opponent’s non-volley zone, forcing them to hit the ball from a defensive position. This strategy is effective because it forces the opponent to let the ball bounce twice, giving the player time to move into a better position.

3. Lobs

A lob is a high, arching shot that lands deep in the opponent’s court. Professional players use lobs to force their opponents to move back and let the ball bounce twice, creating an opportunity for them to attack. Lobs can be challenging to execute, so they require practice and skill.

4. Dinks

A dink is a soft shot that is hit just over the net and lands in the opponent’s non-volley zone. Professional players use dinks to force their opponents to let the ball bounce twice, creating an opportunity for them to attack.

Importance of the Two Bounce Rule in Pickleball

The two bounce rule is essential to the game of pickleball for several reasons. First, it levels the playing field, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Second, it promotes strategy and creativity, as players must use different shots and techniques to take advantage of the rule. Third, it makes the game more exciting and challenging, as players must constantly adapt to the changing dynamics of the match.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about the two bounce rule in pickleball:

What are the two bounce rules in pickleball?

The two bounce rule in pickleball requires each side to make one groundstroke after the ball is served before volleying the ball.

What happens if a player hits the ball before it bounces twice?

If a player hits the ball before it bounces twice, they commit a fault, and the opposing side earns a point.

Does the two bounce rule apply to serves?

Yes, the two bounce rule applies to serves. After the serve, each side must make one groundstroke before volleying the ball.

Can a player hit the ball after it bounces twice?

Yes, a player can hit the ball after it bounces twice. The two bounce rule only applies to the first two bounces.

Is the two bounce rule still in play if the ball touches the net?

Yes, the two bounce rule is still in play if the ball touches the net and lands in the proper service court.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the two bounce rule is a fundamental rule of pickleball that requires each side to make one groundstroke after the ball is served before volleying the ball. Failing to comply with the rule results in a fault, and the opposing side earns a point. While the rule may seem straightforward, it requires practice and skill to master, and professional players use advanced strategies to take advantage of it. The two bounce rule is essential to the game of pickleball, as it promotes strategy, creativity, and fairness.