Pickleball vs. Tennis: What Are the Differences?

Dive into the world of pickleball vs. tennis and make an informed choice for your next court adventure!

People often ask what is the difference between pickleball and tennis? Pickleball and tennis are two of the most popular racket sports played across the world. They have some similarities but also some significant differences. If you're new to these sports, you might wonder what the differences are between them. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between pickleball and tennis.

Court Size and Playing Surface:

One of the biggest differences between the two sports is the court size. Tennis courts are longer and wider, typically measure 78 feet in length and 36 feet in width. On the other hand, pickleball courts are smaller, measuring 44 feet in length and 20 feet in width. Since pickleball courts are smaller, it is easier for beginners to cover the entire court so they can focus on strategy and accuracy. Tennis can be played on various surfaces such as clay, grass, and hard courts, pickleball is usually played on a hard surface like concrete or asphalt.

Equipment:

Another significant difference between the two sports is the equipment used. Tennis players use a larger racket and a ball that is more heavy and stronger bounce.  Pickleball paddles are smaller and lighter and usually made of graphite or composite materials.  Unlike a tennis ball, pickleball balls are lighter, made of plastic, similar to a whiffle ball, which gives it a slower pace. There is also a difference in the net size. In tennis, the net is much higher and longer while in Pickleball, the net is smaller and shorter.

Scoring:

The scoring system is another significant difference between pickleball and tennis. Tennis uses a point system where the server gets two chances to get the ball over the net and into the opponent's court. If the opponent fails to return the ball, the server earns a point. There are six opportunities to score. These six opportunities in tennis are known as a set. In pickleball they use a rally scoring system where every point is scored regardless of who serves. The first team to score 11 points with a two-point lead wins the game.

Serving:

The serving techniques used in both sports are different. In tennis, the player must serve diagonally into the opponent's service box, and the serve must clear the net and land within the service box. In pickleball, the player must serve underhand and hit the ball below the waist, and the serve must land in the opposite service box diagonally.

Playing Style:

The playing style is another difference between the two sports. In tennis, the goal is to hit the ball with a lot of force and fast. The goal in Pickleball is to hit with control.  You will often see pickleball players use less force but has a lot of ball control. Unlike tennis where players moves around the entire court, pickleball players like to play closer to the net.

Although there some differences between tennis and pickleball, both are fun racket sports to play.  If you like to play with control and accuracy, pickleball is for you!  If you rather run all over the court and play with force, tennis is for you!  Regardless of which sport you choose to play, both racquet sports provide excellent opportunities for exercise, competition, and socialization.