Padel Glossary for Dummies: A Simplified A-Z List for New Players

Are you a new padel player trying to figure out what all these terms mean? Fear not! This padel glossary has got you covered. From A to Z, we’ve compiled a list of the most important and commonly used terms in padel to help you communicate effectively on the court and understand the game better.

Ace

A serve that lands in the service box and is untouched by the opponent. It results in an automatic point for the server.

Bandage Grip

A grip used by players to prevent hand blisters and improve grip on the paddle. It is made of cloth or other absorbent materials.

Crosscourt

A shot hit diagonally across the court from one corner to the other.

Drop Shot

A shot that is intentionally hit lightly and drops immediately after crossing the net, making it difficult for the opponent to return.

Empowerment

The ability to play well, make the right decisions, and perform confidently on the court.

Fence

The wire or mesh material that surrounds the court to keep the ball within the playing area.

Game

A game consists of four points: 15, 30, 40, and game point (which can be won on the next point).

Half-Volley

A shot that is hit immediately after the ball bounces, before it reaches its highest point. It requires good timing and hand-eye coordination.

Ish

A term used to indicate an approximate or uncertain distance, as in “The ball landed just ish of the sideline.”

Judge

The official in charge of calling the score and making line calls.

Killer Shot

A powerful shot hit at a tight angle or near the opponent’s body, making it difficult to return.

Love

The score at the start of a game, indicating that neither player has scored yet.

Middle

The center of the court, between the two service boxes.

Net

The mesh barrier that separates the two halves of the court.

Overheads

Shots hit above the player’s head, usually with a forehand or backhand motion.

Paddle

The racket used to hit the ball in padel. It is smaller and has no strings compared to a tennis racket.

Quickness

The ability of a player to move quickly and efficiently around the court.

Rally

When the ball is hit back and forth between the players without stopping.

Service

The act of hitting the ball to start a point. The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball into the opposite service box.

Tiebreaker

A special scoring system used when the score is tied at 6-6 in a set. The first player to reach seven points wins the tiebreaker.

Underhand Serve

A serve executed with a lower arc, often used to surprise the opponent or place the ball near the net.

Volley

A shot that is hit before the ball bounces on the ground. It requires good reflexes and hand-eye coordination.

Wall

The solid surface behind and beside the court where shots can be played off of.

Well, there you have it! This padel glossary should help you understand the most important terms used in the game of padel. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there and start playing! Who knows, you might even impress your opponents with your newfound knowledge.