Two-Bounce Rule

At the start of a rally, each team must let the ball bounce once before hitting it (10.A). This is called the Two-Bounce Rule (or the Double Bounce Rule).

1. Shot 1 (the serve): the receiving team waits for the bounce, then hits it back (10.A)
2. Shot 2 (the return of serve): the serving team also waits for the bounce, then hits it back (10.A)
3. From shot 3: players may hit the ball as a volley (hitting it before it bounces) (10.A)

What if you break it?

• The receiving team hits the serve before it bounces → fault on the receiving team (10.A.1)
• The serving team hits the return before it bounces → fault on the serving team (10.A.2)

Common mistakes

• From shot 3 on, you still have to hit the ball before it bounces twice. You may let it bounce only once (10.B, 10.B.1)

Why does this rule exist?

It is explained as a way to stop the serving team from rushing to the net right away and volleying the return (Pickleball.com). The third shot drop, which the serving team often uses on shot 3, is said to be needed because of this rule (Pickleball.com).