What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport that was invented in 1965 by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. It combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis and is especially popular in the United States. It is played on a court that is about one-third the size of a tennis court and has a slightly different net than tennis. Pickleball is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The game is scored like tennis and can be played as singles or doubles.
What is Paddle Tennis?
Paddle tennis is another paddle sport that is similar to pickleball. The sport was invented in the early 1900s and was an early precursor to the game of pickleball. Paddle tennis is played on a court that is about one-third the size of a tennis court and has a slightly different net than tennis. The game is scored like tennis and can be played as singles or doubles. The main difference between paddle tennis and pickleball is the type of ball used. Paddle tennis is played with a rubber ball that is heavier than the plastic ball used in pickleball.
Differences in Court Size and Net Height
One of the main differences between pickleball and paddle tennis is the size of the court and the height of the net. Pickleball is played on a court that is 20’ x 44’ while paddle tennis is played on a court that is 24’ x 48’. The net for pickleball is 34” high while the net for paddle tennis is 36” high.
Differences in Paddles and Balls
Another major difference between pickleball and paddle tennis is the type of paddles and balls used. Pickleball is played with a paddle that is typically made of graphite or composite material and is larger than the paddle used in paddle tennis. The ball used in pickleball is a plastic ball with holes that is about the size of a ping pong ball. Paddle tennis is played with a paddle that is typically made of wood or aluminum and is smaller than the paddle used in pickleball. The ball used in paddle tennis is a rubber ball that is larger and heavier than the ball used in pickleball.
Differences in Scoring
Both pickleball and paddle tennis are scored like tennis, with points scored when the opposing team fails to return the ball. However, there are some minor differences in the way the games are scored. In pickleball, the first team to reach 11 points with a two-point lead wins the game. In paddle tennis, the first team to reach 21 points with a two-point lead wins the game.
Differences in Strategies
The strategies used in pickleball and paddle tennis are also quite different. Pickleball is a fast-paced game that requires quick thinking and precise shot placement. The game is usually won by controlling the center of the court and taking advantage of opportunities to hit volleys and drop shots. Paddle tennis is a slower game that requires more patience and strategy. The game is usually won by keeping the ball in play and using a variety of spin shots and lobs.
Differences in Popularity
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States and is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. Paddle tennis, on the other hand, is not as widely played and is mostly confined to the United States and Europe.
Differences in Costs
The cost of equipment for pickleball and paddle tennis also differs. A pickleball set, which includes a net, paddles, and balls, typically costs around $100. A paddle tennis set can cost up to $500 or more, depending on the quality of the equipment.
Differences in Rules
The rules of pickleball and paddle tennis are also quite different. Pickleball is governed by the USAPA (USA Pickleball Association) and the rules of the game are standardized across the United States. Paddle tennis is not as well regulated and the rules of the game vary from one country to another.
Differences in Levels of Play
The level of play in pickleball and paddle tennis also differs. Pickleball has more organized tournaments and leagues, and there are professional pickleball players who compete at the highest level. Paddle tennis does not have as many organized tournaments and leagues and is mostly played recreationally.
Conclusion
Pickleball and paddle tennis are two paddle sports that are similar yet different in many ways. The key differences between the two sports include the size of the court, the height of the net, the type of paddles and balls used, the scoring system, the strategies used, the level of popularity, the cost of equipment, and the rules of the game. No matter which sport you choose to play, both are great ways to have fun and stay active.