When we talk about racket sports, the first sport to enter our minds is, of course, tennis! This is because of its rich historical background and also its worldwide significance, which has made a great impact on our minds.
Pickleball is also a racket sport that has recently been discovered and is gaining immense popularity among youngsters and teenagers.
With the increasing popularity of pickleball, there is a doubt whether it will overcome the popularity of tennis in the distant future or will continue to be the favourite among racket sports lovers.
So, before we delve into this, it is necessary to understand the games, their differences, and how similar they are to arrive at a perfect conclusion. In this blog, let's unravel the mystery of pickleball vs tennis. So, if you want to know more, read this blog till the end, where I have shared about Pickleball vs Tennis.
What Are Pickleball and Tennis?
Pickleball is a paddle sport where the ball is perforated, made of plastic, and lightweight. The net of the pickleball game is 34 inches high (0.86 m). Pickleball is played indoors and outdoors and can be played as singles or also as pickleball doubles.
Meanwhile, tennis is a racket sport that is played either individually, against a single player, or in the doubles version. Each player uses a racket which is strung with a cord to strike a hollow rubber ball. The game's motive is to hit in a way that the opponent is unable to make a return. If a ball is hit by the opponent, they score a point.
Difference Between Pickleball vs Tennis
Weight of the Equipment for Pickleball vs Tennis
The weight of the equipment for pickleball and tennis differs from each other. Pickleball can be easily transported, whereas tennis might require more storage. It is easier to stow, pickleball paddles are generally more lightweight and smaller than tennis paddles.
Pickleball vs Tennis Racket
When we talk about the size of the racket, both the pickleball racket and the tennis racket differ from each other. The pickleball paddles weigh between 7 and 9 ounces, whereas the tennis paddles weigh only 2.5 ounces.
Pickleball vs Tennis Ball
The ball is also different for both the tennis ball and the pickleball. A tennis ball uses a rubber shell that can be pressured to various levels; on the contrary, a pickleball uses a perforated plastic ball, which is the best choice for pickleball players. The plastic ball also does not jump as high as possible, making it the best option for the smaller court.
Ball Serving for Pickleball vs Tennis
Both pickleball and tennis balls differ in their serving techniques. In tennis, the shot can be an overhand or an underhand volley. Meanwhile, in pickleball, the shot is attempted only underhandedly.
Scoring System for Pickleball vs Tennis
Though both are racket sports, the scoring systems of both tennis and pickleball could be different, which might confuse the players at the very beginning. The tennis game has a different scoring system, including 0, 15, 30, and 40, and then the game is won. Whereas the players must win by two points where the matches are divided into sets and games.
On the other hand, pickleball has a unique and simpler scoring system. Here, the points are scored only by the serving teams, which are usually played to 11 points and are won by 2 points. The scores are announced in three numbers: 5-3-1, representing the serving team's score, the receiving team's score, and the server number.
Style and Speed of Play for Pickleball vs Tennis
The style as well as the pace of the play might also differ in these two sports. Tennis is a game which involves powerful shots, long rallies, and lots of running, which requires endurance, strength, and strategy. Whereas pickleball is a game which involves quick reflexes, soft hits, and also smart positioning, which is more finesse than power.
Popularity of Pickleball vs Tennis
When we talk about the popularity of this duo, there is no comparison. This is because both are the most popular sports in India and globally. Tennis has grown for a long time and is played worldwide, and even local clubs have participated in big tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Open. However, pickleball started in the 1960s; it is one of the fastest-growing sports in the US. It is also easier to learn, needs less space, and is cheaper to play, making it very accessible for players across the world.
Court Size and Layout
The main difference you can easily spot is the court size and layout. The tennis court size for singles is 78 feet long and 27 feet wide, whereas for doubles, the court is 36 feet wide. Tennis courts have baseline service lines and also alleys for doubles play.
Pickleball courts are much smaller, 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, for both singles and doubles. The pickleball court has a special area near the net called the "kitchen," or a non-volley zone, where the players cannot hit volleys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pickleball vs Tennis
Which Is Better for Beginners, Pickleball or Tennis?
For beginners, pickleball is considered the best option because the court size is smaller for the pickleball game, with a smaller court, lighter equipment, and more straightforward rules. It is also less tiring and is suitable for all ages.
Can I Play Both Pickleball and Tennis If I Enjoy Racket Sports?
Yes! If you enjoy racket sports, you can play both pickleball and tennis.
What Is the Difference Between Pickleball and Tennis?
Both pickleball and tennis are racket sports that are alike each other. Despite these similarities, these sports have many differences, including the court structure, equipment, and the differences in pickleball rules vs tennis rules.
Both pickleball and tennis are racket sports that have their playing strategy defined by several rules that separate them from each other. Knowing their differences can help you make a proper decision between choosing these two racket sports.
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