[PT] Why Does a Doubles Game Start at 0-0-2 Instead of 0-0-1?

This is the standard opening rule in pickleball. To keep the game fair, the team serving first receives only one service opportunity during the opening service turn. The first server is therefore treated as Server 2, and the score begins at 0-0-2.

This prevents the starting team from gaining an advantage by having both players serve before the opposing team gets its first opportunity. The rule applies to standard recreational play, amateur matches, and organized competition.