Penalties and Violations in Padel: An Explanation of Common Infractions

Padel is a thrilling sport that combines aspects of tennis, squash, and badminton, and has been growing in popularity around the world in recent years. However, like any sport, there are rules and regulations that players must follow to ensure fair gameplay. In this article, we’ll be discussing common infractions in padel and the penalties that may ensue.

The Serve

The serve is perhaps the most crucial part of any padel game, and there are strict rules governing its execution. When serving, players must stand behind the service line and hit the ball diagonally into the opposite diagonal box. Failure to do so results in a fault, with two faults leading to a lost point. The server must wait for the receiver’s readiness before starting the service motion. The same player must serve until the game’s end, alternating between the right and left service boxes.

Foot faults

Foot faults are a common infraction in padel, primarily because of the speed and intensity of the game. A foot fault occurs when the server steps on or over the service line or inside the court’s playing area before hitting the ball. This infraction results in the loss of serve or, in some cases, the deduction of a point.

Hitting the ball more than once

In padel, players are not allowed to hit the ball twice consecutively. This means that if a player hits the ball and it rebounds off the wall or net and back towards them, they cannot hit it again until their opponent has had a chance to play it. If a player violates this rule, they lose the point.

The ball hitting the net

If the ball hits the net on the serve but lands on the correct service box, the player is allowed to replay the serve. However, if the ball lands outside the service box, the server loses the point. During play, if the ball hits the net and goes over onto the opponent’s side, the rally continues. If it hits the net and lands in the same court as the player who hit it, they lose the point.

Ball out of bounds

If the ball is hit out of bounds, the point goes to the opposing player or team. The ball is considered out if it touches any part of the floor outside the playing area or hits the padded walls or net and fails to go over.

In conclusion, understanding the rules of padel is essential for enjoying the game and competing fairly. The common infractions mentioned above are just a few of the rule violations that can occur during a match. Remember, padel rules explained means you are informed and prepared to play your best game!