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Skinny singles

Also called: Mini-singles, Half-court singles

By DinkPedia Editors · Updated

Definition

Skinny singles is a common name for half-court pickleball singles. In the 2026 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook, the official name is mini-singles (Rule 14.B): each rally is played on only the right or left half of a standard court, based on each player’s score.

How it works

Rule 14.B says all standard singles rules apply to mini-singles except for the changes in that section. You still use a full-size court. What changes is which half is live.

  • Court area in play (14.B.1.a). Only the right or left side on each end is in play during a rally, based on each player’s score.
  • Boundary lines (14.B.1.b). For the live half, boundaries are the baseline, that sideline, and the centerline. The other half is out.
  • Extra centerline through the kitchen (14.B.1.c). An added line must extend the centerline through each non-volley zone. Its color does not have to match the other lines.
  • Positions (14.B.2). Server and receiver stand according to their individual scores.
  • Shot placement (14.B.3). Serves and returns must land in the opponent’s live half.

The two-bounce rule and the non-volley zone (kitchen) still apply.

Quick example

Both players have even scores, so each uses the right half. The serve must land in the receiver’s live half. A drive into the dead half is out, even if it would be in during full-court singles. When a player’s score becomes odd, that player’s live half switches for the next rally.

Common confusion

“Skinny singles” vs. “mini-singles.” Rec players usually say skinny singles. The rulebook’s name is mini-singles (Rule 14.B). Same idea: half-court singles on a standard court.

It is not automatic rally scoring. Mini-singles is Rule 14.B. Rally scoring is the separate provisional option in Rule 14.A. Clubs may combine them, but the rulebook treats them as different variations.

The dead half is truly out. Hitting the non-live side is not a let. Under Rule 14.B.1.b, that side is out of bounds for that rally.

FAQ

Why do people play skinny singles?
It fits an odd number of players, shortens recovery versus full-court singles, and makes a useful depth drill. Many open-play groups use it when a fifth or seventh player arrives.

Do I need a special court?
No. Rule 14.B.1 uses a standard court. You do need the centerline extended through each kitchen (Rule 14.B.1.c). Tape is a common temporary fix.

Are kitchen faults the same?
Yes. Non-volley zone rules still apply on the live half. See kitchen momentum for follow-through details.

Sources

  1. 2026 USA Pickleball Official Rulebook . USA Pickleball . Accessed November 5, 2026