Americano
Everyone partners with everyone — the social classic.
Americano is the most popular social event format. Players rotate partners every round so each person teams up with everyone else exactly once. Total points won across all matches decide the ranking.
Players
8, 12, 16, 20 or 24 players (multiples of 4)
Duration
1.5 – 3 hours depending on player count
Scoring
Points per game (typically first to 24). Cumulative points = ranking.
How Americano works
- Players are split across courts; partners change every round.
- Each round is one short match to a fixed point cap (e.g. 24).
- When time is up, count the remaining ball as a single point.
- After all rounds, sum the points each player scored to get the standings.
Why organisers love it
- Everyone plays with and against everyone — perfect for meeting new people.
- Fair for mixed levels: stronger players don't dominate one team for the night.
- Easy to explain: one rule, one scoring system.
Best for
Mixed-level groups, club nights, charity events, friendly tournaments.