What is the kitchen in pickleball?

In pickleball, the kitchen refers to the non-volley zone that extends 7 feet from the net on both sides of the court. This rectangular area runs the full width of the court and is marked by a line painted on the playing surface. The 7-foot distance measures perpendicular from the net, creating two equal zones, one in each player's territory.

The core rule governing the kitchen is straightforward: players standing inside this zone cannot hit a volley, meaning they cannot strike the ball in the air before it bounces. A player may enter the kitchen to play a ball that has already bounced on the court, but the moment the paddle makes contact with an airborne ball while the player's feet are inside the boundary, a fault is called and the point goes to the opponent. Even touching the kitchen line with your foot while volleying counts as a violation.

This rule exists to balance play and prevent aggressive net-rushing tactics that would dominate the sport. By restricting volleys near the net, pickleball encourages longer rallies and skill development beyond pure power hitting. Players must respect the kitchen boundary or risk losing points. Understanding kitchen placement and movement is essential for competitive play. When searching for courts in the Klang Valley, look for facilities with properly marked kitchens that meet official standards.