What Is The Double Bounce Rule in Pickleball?

If you’re just starting out playing pickleball, the double bounce rule can be an easy one to forget about. But it’s a crucial rule for the flow of play. Here’s what you need to know.

So what is the double bounce rule?

The ball must hit the court before you return a serve. And it must hit the court before the serving side hits back the return. Meaning, you cannot volley the ball out of the air when you’re returning a serve, and the server cannot volley the ball out of the air when playing the return shot. Hence, the name, “double bounce.” Or as it’s sometimes referred to, “the two bounce rule.”

Why it’s important?

This rule can be confusing for beginner players. But you’ll soon understand the importance of it. What the double bounce rule does is ensure a consistent flow of game. It’s about the transition from serve to play. And it allows players to consistently get into a fun routine of play.