Selena Turner is a passionate pickleball competitor, having played in various tournaments nationwide. She is recognized for her potent smashes and tactical approach to the game. Selena takes pleasure in imparting her experiences and advice to fellow pickleball aficionados.
As a competitive pickleball player, I often get asked about the differences between pickleball and tennis. One of the most noticeable differences is the size of the court, but there are also differences in the corners of the court. For a detailed comparison, you can refer to our article on key differences between tennis and pickleball.
Pickleball Court Corners: In pickleball, the corners of the court are considered "no-volley zones," also known as the "kitchen." This means that players cannot hit the ball out of the air while standing inside the kitchen. The kitchen extends 7 feet from the net on either side of the court and is marked by a line. The kitchen is designed to prevent players from dominating the game with powerful smashes from the net. To understand more about the court dimensions, you can read our ultimate guide to pickleball court dimensions and markings.
Tennis Court Corners: In tennis, the corners of the court are not restricted areas. Players can hit the ball from any part of the court, including the corners. Tennis courts are also larger than pickleball courts, measuring 78 feet long and 27 feet wide for singles matches and 78 feet long and 36 feet wide for doubles matches.
Why the Difference? The difference in the corners of the court is due to the nature of the two sports. Tennis is a game of power and endurance, with players hitting the ball from all parts of the court. In contrast, pickleball is a game of finesse and strategy, with players focusing on placement and control rather than power. The kitchen helps to level the playing field and prevent players from dominating the game with powerful shots.
Conclusion: Understanding the differences between the corners of a tennis court and a pickleball court is important for players who are new to the sport. While the two sports share some similarities, there are also key differences that can impact gameplay. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, knowing the rules and strategies of pickleball can help you improve your game and enjoy this exciting sport to the fullest. For more information on pickleball rules, court dimensions, equipment, and accessories, check out our comprehensive guide on mastering pickleball rules and our top 10 pickleball paddles of 2023.
