Key Rules and Regulations of Padel for Beginners

Welcome to the exciting world of padel! Whether you’re a beginner looking to try something new or an avid tennis player seeking a fresh challenge, padel offers a thrilling and accessible experience. Before you step onto the padel court, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the key rules and regulations to ensure a fun and fair game. Let’s dive right in!

The Basics: Understanding the Padel Court

Padel is played on a court that is slightly smaller than a tennis court, surrounded by glass walls and fencing. These walls are in play, meaning the ball can bounce off them and still be in play. The court is divided into two halves by a net, and each side has a service box and an area called the “service zone.”

The Serve: Getting the Game Started

Similar to tennis, the game begins with the serve. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball diagonally, aiming for the service box on the opposite side of the net. The ball must bounce once on the server’s side and then clear the net without touching it before bouncing in the service box on the opponent’s side. If the ball hits the net and still lands in the correct service box, it is called a “let,” and the server gets another chance.

The Scoring: Understanding Padel Points

Padel follows a similar scoring system to tennis. The points are counted as follows:

• Love: 0 points
• 15: 1 point
• 30: 2 points
• 40: 3 points (though, note that “40-40” is called “deuce” instead of “40-40” in padel)
• Game: 4 points, provided there is a two-point advantage over the opponent. If both sides reach 40 points (deuce), a deciding point – known as “vantaja” – is played.

It’s worth mentioning that the server’s score is always called first, followed by the receiver’s score.

The Ball: Keeping it in Play

In padel, you can let the ball bounce once before returning it, or you can hit it on the volley (without letting it bounce). However, when returning a serve, let or no let, the ball must bounce before it is hit. Keeping the ball in play involves strategic shots using both forehand and backhand strokes, as well as well-placed volleys to keep your opponents on their toes.

The Let: When Things Don’t Go as Planned

If either team interferes with the opponent’s shot unintentionally, it is called a “let.” This means the point is replayed. Additionally, if the ball hits the roof or any permanent object above the court, it is considered a “let,” and the point is replayed.

The Double Bounce Rule: Playing Fairly

To make the game more dynamic and ensure equal opportunities for both teams, there’s a “double bounce” rule in padel. This means that after serving, both teams must let the ball bounce on their side once before hitting it. Only after these two bounces are completed can players start volleying. This rule helps prevent excessive smashing and promotes longer rallies.

Ending the Game: The Tiebreak

If the score reaches 40-40, also known as “deuce,” a deciding point is played. The team that wins this point earns an “advantage.” If they win the next point, they win the game. If the other team wins the point instead, the score goes back to deuce, and the process repeats until one team wins by a two-point margin.

Remember, the joy of padel comes from both friendly competition and camaraderie. As beginners, it’s essential to focus on enjoying the game and improving your skills. Now that you understand the key rules of padel, grab your racket, find a partner, and get ready to have a blast on the court. Welcome to the world of padel for beginners – have fun!