Can you play pickleball with 2 players?
Short answer: Yes, absolutely!
Pickleball can be played with two people—and it’s actually one of the most popular ways to play the game.
Whether you’re just starting out or you only have one partner available, singles pickleball is a fun, fast-paced, and fantastic workout. In this article, we’ll break down how playing with two people works, how it’s different from doubles, and tips to help you enjoy the game even more.
Singles vs Doubles in Pickleball
Pickleball is most commonly played as doubles—two vs two—but there’s also an official format for singles, where it’s one vs one.
| Feature | Singles (2 players total) | Doubles (4 players total) |
|---|---|---|
| Players | 1 per side | 2 per side |
| Movement | More court coverage, faster pace | Shared court coverage, more strategy |
| Scoring | Simple serve-side rules | More complex rotation and scoring |
| Energy level | High-intensity cardio | Moderate intensity |
So yes, you can play pickleball with two people—and it’s called singles pickleball.
Why Play Singles Pickleball?
Here are some reasons to try singles with just two players:
- 🏃 Great for fitness – Expect a lot of running, side-stepping, and quick reactions.
- 🎯 Improves accuracy – With fewer players, you’ll need to place your shots wisely.
- 💪 Builds endurance – You’re covering the whole court by yourself!
- 👯 Easier to organize – You only need one partner, not a full group.
How Do Singles Pickleball Rules Work?
The rules of singles are almost the same as doubles, but simpler. Here are the key things to know:
- Serve from the right when your score is even
- Serve from the left when your score is odd
- You only get one serve turn (no partner rotation)
- Score 1 point per win on your serve, and continue serving until you lose the rally
- Games are usually played to 11 points (win by 2)
Singles is perfect for beginners who want to learn the game, get a workout, and still have fun—even with just one opponent.
What Equipment Do You Need?
All you need to play singles pickleball with two people is:
- A net (official height: 36” at the posts, 34” in the center)
- A standard-sized court (20 ft wide x 44 ft long)
- A perforated plastic ball (like a wiffle ball)
- Two paddles
🎾 Looking for a high-quality, beginner-friendly paddle?