Singles Pickleball: The Ultimate Guide

Pickleball is a highly social sport but in singles it’s a whole different animal. With only one player on each side of the court singles pickleball is a physically demanding, strategic and mentally tough challenge. While it’s similar to doubles in many ways the solo nature of the game requires a different approach. In this guide we’ll dive deep into the world of singles pickleball and cover the rules, strategies and tips to help you play better and win more.

Singles Pickleball: Alone

Singles pickleball is a solo act, every shot, every move, every decision is on you. No partner to cover your back or share the load, every rally is a 1 on 1 battle of skill and will. The lack of a partner can be liberating and terrifying, requires more focus and self reliance. The court feels much bigger and every corner demands your attention.

Key Differences: Singles vs Doubles

While singles pickleball follows the same basic rules as the game, there are a few key differences:

• Number of Players: The most obvious difference is the number of players on each side of the court – one in singles, two in doubles.
• Serving: In singles you only get one serve per turn so you have to make it count.
• Scoring: Singles scoring is simplified, no third number to track server positions.
• Court Coverage: In singles you have to cover the whole court, more agility, stamina and strategy required.
• Strategy: Singles is all about controlling the middle of the court, minimizing unforced errors and exploiting your opponent’s weaknesses.

Rules of the Game: The Singles Edition

While most pickleball rules are the same for both formats a couple of rules apply only to singles:

• Serving: Each player gets one serve. If the serve is a fault the serve goes to the opponent.
• Scoring: Score is announced with two numbers - server’s score first, then receiver’s score.

Master the Serve and Return: Set the Tone

The serve and return are the most important moments in singles pickleball, setting up the whole rally. A good serve can put your opponent on the back foot, a good return can take control of the point from the start.

• Serving: Serve deep and consistent, to the backhand or make them move side to side. Vary your serves to keep them guessing and not get into a rhythm.
• Returning: Return deep and to the middle of the court, make them hit up and give yourself time to move forward and take the net.

Strategic Positioning: The Court is the Game

Singles pickleball is a positioning game. Moving and positioning is key to winning.

• Control the Middle: The middle of the court is the most valuable real estate in singles. Try to get and hold the middle, limit your opponent’s options and make them hit harder shots.
• Move Forward: After the serve and return move aggressively to the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) line to cut off their angles and put pressure on their third shot.
• Read Your Opponent: Watch your opponent’s movement and shot patterns. Anticipate their next shot and position yourself to react quickly.

Singles Strategies

Singles pickleball requires a strategic mind and knowledge of the game. Here are the key strategies to add to your singles game:

• Consistency is Key: Minimize unforced errors and keep the ball in play. In singles every mistake is amplified so prioritize consistency over flash.
• Attack the Middle: The middle of the court is your opponent’s weakest point. Serve deep, return deep and drive to the middle to put pressure on them.
• Vary Your Shots: Mix up your shots, dink, drop, drive and lob to keep them off balance and guessing.
• Be Patient: Singles rallies can be long and tiring. Be patient, wait for the right moment to attack and don’t rush your shots.
• Mental Toughness: Singles pickleball is as much a mental game as it is physical. Stay focused, stay positive and don’t let setbacks get to you.

Physical Fitness and Endurance: The Base of the Pyramid

Singles pickleball is a physically demanding sport, you need to be fit and have endurance. Be prepared to run the whole court, long rallies and push your body to the limit.

• Cardio: Build your stamina through cardio exercise like running, cycling or swimming.
• Agility and Footwork: Improve your agility and footwork with drills and exercises that focus on quick movements and changes of direction.
• Strength and Flexibility: Add strength training and stretching to your routine to power up and prevent injuries.

Singles pickleball is a game for all levels. Learn the rules, master the strategies and get fit and you’ll unlock your full potential and enjoy the thrill of playing solo on the pickleball court. Singles pickleball is a journey of self discovery and improvement. Embrace the challenge, learn from every match and enjoy the reward.