What's the Difference Between Pickleball and Tennis?

9 months ago

PPickleball is a fast-paced game that combines some of the best aspects of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. While some of the game’s characteristics and mechanics may seem familiar to tennis players, it is not quite the same. Here is an overview of the difference between pickleball and tennis.

Paddles 

Pickleball paddles are much smaller than tennis rackets, and they do not have any mesh. They feature a solid surface that may have air holes, and they are typically made from wood, plastics, composites, fiberglass, or carbon fiber.

Balls

Pickleballs are made from plastic, with air holes that help to control flight characteristics like speed and drag. They are designed to bounce, but not as far as tennis balls. Rubber tennis balls are built with larger courts and faster gameplay in mind.

Nets

Tennis nets are much longer and taller than pickleball nets, due to the larger court size. Pickleball nets are also much lighter, making them easier to install, carry, and store.

Courts

The typical tennis court is 78 feet long by 36 feet wide. Regulation pickleball courts are 44 feet long by 20 feet wide, making hem easier to fit in small backyards, and if space is limited, the size can be customized to meet your needs. Old tennis courts can also be converted to play pickleball, often fitting two pickleball courts in the space of a single tennis court.

Gameplay

Tennis features an overhand serve that can be difficult for new players to master. Pickleball features an easier underhand serve, aimed diagonally to the opposite side of the court. In tennis, the server has two chances to serve, and if the opponent fails to return the ball, the server earns a point. The first player to earn 4 points will win the game, and the first player to win 6 games will win the set. The ultimate winner of the tennis match is the first player who wins two sets.

In pickleball, only the serving team can earn points, and the serve passes from side to side. The first team to reach 11 points wins, as long as they have a 2-point lead on the opposition. If not, play will continue until the leading team is 2 points ahead.

Custom Pickleball & Tennis Courts in Las Vegas

Whether you enjoy pickleball, tennis, or both, our team at Sport Court Las Vegas can help you take your game to the next level. We design and build custom tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts, and combination courts that can be used for multiple games. 

We also feature advanced play surfaces that can help minimize joint stress and fatigue while reducing injuries, including our elusive PowerGame™, Sport-Game™, and SportGame Pickleball™ cushioned surfaces. Plus, we offer a full range of accessories like equipment packages, lighting, nets, and more.

Call 702-883-8386 to request a quote for a custom pickleball court or tennis court in Las Vegas, Henderson, Mesquite, or the surrounding areas.