Back to Basics: A Quick Refresher on Padel Rules

As a seasoned padel player, it’s easy to overlook the importance of going back to the basics every now and then. While we may think we have the rules memorized like the back of our hand, it’s always a good idea to dust off our knowledge and revisit the foundations of this fantastic sport. So, whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or a pro aiming to polish your skills, join me as we embark on a quick refresher on the basic padel rules that will surely help you up your game!

The Court and Its Dimensions

Before diving into the rules, we must first familiarize ourselves with the padel court and its dimensions. The court, similar to tennis, is rectangular in shape but smaller, measuring 20 meters long and 10 meters wide.

Now, let’s move on to the good stuff – the rules that govern this exhilarating sport!

Serving it Right

The game starts with an underhand serve, also known as the “Saco” serve, where players must make contact with the ball below the waist. Here’s a pro tip for all you beginners out there – aim for a deep serve to the back of the court, which will give you more time to position yourself strategically.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the serve box, which is a small rectangle drawn in the middle of the court. Just like in tennis, the server must ensure that both of their feet are behind the service line when serving, and the ball must land diagonally into the opposite service box.

The Volley Zone – The Heart of the Game

Once the ball is served and returned, the magic happens. Welcome to the volley zone! Here, the ball must bounce on the ground before players can strike it. However, it’s important to note that the ball cannot bounce twice.

In the heat of the game, it can be easy to forget that you are only allowed to let the ball hit one side of the court before returning it. Be mindful of the imaginary line that runs parallel to the net, as it serves as a boundary for your shots.

Scoring: Love, 15, 30, 40, Game

Scoring in padel has a unique twist. We use the same scoring system as in tennis but with a slightly different lingo. Instead of “zero,” we say “love.” As you win points, the score progresses from love to 15, 30, and 40. Although, instead of outright winning the game at 40 points, both teams must win by a two-point margin. If the score reaches 40-40, also known as “deuce,” the next point won is called an “advantage.” But be cautious, as the team with the advantage must win the next point to secure the game.

Out of Bounds

Lastly, let’s talk about the boundaries. Unlike other racket sports, padel doesn’t have lines that mark the outer limits of the court. Instead, the walls that surround the court are in play, meaning that any ball hit against them is still in play. However, if the ball touches the metal fence located at the top or any of the surrounding nets before crossing over to the opponent’s side, it’s considered out of bounds.

Mastering the Basics for Success

Now that we’ve covered some basic padel rules, it’s time to hit the court and put your newfound knowledge into practice. Remember, understanding the rules is essential, but practice is what truly elevates your game. So, grab your racket, grab a friend, and get ready to experience the exhilaration that only padel can provide! Good luck!