Pickleball rules and scoring differ from other racket sports like tennis, badminton or padel. Traditionally, points could only be earned by the serving team, making strategy and patience critical. But as the sport grows, rally scoring has gained popularity for its faster pace and simpler structure.

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So, what’s the difference? And how does it affect DUPR ratings? Let’s break it down.

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Traditional Scoring: The Original Pickleball Formula

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In traditional pickleball scoring for doubles:

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• Only the serving team scores points.
  
  
• The receiving team can win the rally but only earns the right to force the ball to the second server or get the ball back to serve next.
  
  
• Both players on the serving team get an opportunity to serve before a sideout occurs.
  
  
• The score is announced with three numbers (e.g., 7-5-1): serving team’s score, receiving team’s score, and whether it’s the first or second server.
  
  
• Partners rotate sides only if they score a point while serving.
  
  

Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2. To learn more about serving rules in pickleball, check out this blog. 

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Rally Scoring: Speeding the Game

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Rally scoring changes one key rule: a point is awarded on every rally, regardless of who served.

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• Scoring is simplified to two numbers (e.g., 7-6), making it easier for new players and spectators to follow.
  
  
• Players stay on their designated sides instead of rotating based on points won.
  
  
• Matches typically play to 21 points, still win by 2, to balance the faster pace.
  
  

How Does Rally Scoring Affect Your DUPR Rating?

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DUPR’s algorithm factors in rally scoring. Because rally scoring matches tend to be tighter, the favorite’s expected point percentage is slightly lower compared to traditional scoring. DUPR’s predictions and post-match updates are based on real data from both formats, so whether you play traditional or rally scoring, your DUPR rating remains fair and accurate.

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To learn more about DUPR’s algorithm, check out DUPR’s How It Works Page. 

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Bottom Line

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Both scoring systems bring unique elements to the game:

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• Traditional scoring rewards patience, holding serve, and strategic sideouts.
  
  
• Rally scoring increases pace, simplifies scoring, and speeds up the game.
  
  

Which one do you prefer? Either way, DUPR’s rating system adjusts for both.