Cracking the Code: How to Return Difficult Serves in Padel like a Pro

Are you tired of losing points because your opponent’s serve is too difficult to return in padel? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Even professional padel players struggle with returning tricky serves.

But fear not, because we are here to help you crack the code and return those difficult serves like a pro. Here are some tips and tricks to improve your return game.

Master Your Footwork

Footwork is crucial in padel. You need to be in the right position to return the serve effectively. Before your opponent serves, position yourself in the middle of the court, with both feet pointing towards the net. This will give you a good chance to move either left or right. Be light on your feet and ready to pounce on any serve.

Watch the Ball at All Times

It’s imperative to watch the ball from the moment it leaves your opponent’s hand until it bounces on your side. Keep your eyes fixed on the ball, and don’t look at the server’s body. This will help you anticipate the bounce and plan your return accordingly.

Anticipate the Serve

Try to anticipate your opponent’s serve by studying their body language and ball toss. Are they aiming for a particular spot? Watch for any signs that can give you a clue about the direction, speed, and spin of the serve.

Use the Right Technique

Use the continental grip to hit the ball. Your wrist should be relaxed and your elbow slightly bent. As the ball bounces, take a small step forward with the foot that’s on the same side as your hitting arm, while turning your shoulders towards the net. Swing your arm forward, and hit the ball with a firm, controlled stroke.

Don’t Be Afraid to Change Things Up

Mixing up your returns can throw off your opponent’s rhythm. Vary the direction, speed, and height of your returns to keep your opponent guessing where the ball will go. You can use a deep return to push your opponent back and give you time to get to the net. Or try a shorter return to catch them off guard.

Practice Makes Perfect

Finally, the most important thing is to practice, practice, practice. Work on your footwork and technique, and drill with a partner to improve your anticipation and reaction time. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with returning difficult serves in padel.

In conclusion, returning difficult serves in padel is challenging, but with the right mindset and technique, you can become a pro at it. So, next time you face a tricky serve, remember these tips and crack the code like a true padel expert.