The short answer
Forehand takes the middle. It is the default because the forehand covers more range, is stronger for most players, and reaches across the middle more naturally than a backhand.
But it is a default, not a law
Override it when the situation says so:
- Whoever is further forward takes it. Closer to the net means less time for everyone — take it early.
- Whoever the ball is travelling toward. Do not reach across your partner for a ball already moving away from you.
- Whoever hit the last shot often has the better angle on the reply.
Left-handers change everything
A right-left pairing can end up with two forehands in the middle, which is fantastic, or two backhands, which is a problem. Work it out before the first serve rather than during the third rally.
The real answer is talk
“Mine.” “Yours.” That is it. Say it early — while the ball is travelling, not as it arrives. A call made at contact is too late to be useful.
Most recreational partners play in complete silence and then look at each other when the ball lands between them. The fix costs nothing and takes one game to build.
Better to both go than neither
If in doubt, go. Two paddles at the ball is an awkward moment. Zero paddles is a lost point. Adopt the habit of moving until you hear your partner call it.
Middle solves the angle
Worth remembering why the middle matters offensively too: the net is lowest in the middle and it takes the angles away from your opponents. Hitting middle is smart. Which is exactly why you will face so many of them — sort out who takes them.
Final thought
Forehand takes it, the forward player overrides that, and talking overrides everything. Partner communication and court movement are the core of our structured pickleball camps in San Diego, and we play plenty of live doubles points at our weekly pickleball clinics in San Diego.
Want this fixed on court?
Bring the question to a session and get feedback on your actual game, at your level.
Book a Pickleball Lesson in San Diego