SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pb-serving-team-lets-return-bounce

After the return of serve, what must the serving team do?

Let the return bounce before hitting it.

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  1. Volley it right away
  2. Let it bounce before hitting it ✔
  3. Let it bounce twice

Why: The two-bounce rule works both ways. The receiving team lets the serve bounce, then the serving team lets the return bounce. After that, volleys are allowed.

Huh, didn't know that: That is why it is called the two-bounce rule: one bounce on each side.

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The two-bounce rule is so fair. Everybody gets a turn to wait.
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References

Answer: Let it bounce before hitting it. The two-bounce rule works both ways. The receiving team lets the serve bounce, then the serving team lets the return bounce. After that, volleys are allowed.

  1. USA Pickleball Rules Summary usapickleball.org/rules/summary
    then the serving team must let it bounce before returning, thus two bounces
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Sports & FitnessCan the receiver hit the serve out of the air before it bounces?Sports & FitnessWhat is the main reason pickleball has the two-bounce rule?Sports & FitnessYou volley the ball with your toe touching the kitchen line. Is that legal?

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