Padel Scoring 101: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Padel Scoring 101: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started

Welcome to the exciting world of padel! If you’re a beginner looking to play this fast-paced and exhilarating sport, understanding how to score in padel is an essential skill to master. Don’t worry, though, as we are here to guide you through the basics of padel scoring and help you get started on your padel journey.

The Basics of Padel Scoring

In padel, scoring follows a similar format to tennis. The game is played in sets, and each set is made up of games. The first player or team to win six games with a lead of at least two games wins the set. If the score reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is played to decide the winner of the set. The tiebreak is played to seven points, with the same two-point lead rule applying.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the scoring system to truly understand how points are earned and how the game progresses.

Scoring Points in Padel

Scoring in padel is a bit different from traditional tennis. The scoring progression follows this pattern: 15, 30, 40, and game. If both players or teams have a score of 40 or higher, it results in a deuce. At deuce, a player or team must win two consecutive points to take the game.

For example, if the score is 40-40 (deuce), the next point earned is called ‘Advantage.’ If the player or team who has the advantage wins the next point, they win the game. However, if they lose the point, the score returns to deuce, and the battle for the game continues.

Serving in Padel

How the game begins is also vital to understand. In padel, the serve must be delivered diagonally, starting from the right side of the court and landing on the opponent’s service box on the opposite side of the net (similar to tennis). The server gets two attempts to serve the ball. If the first serve is a fault, they have another opportunity to deliver a successful serve.

Once the serve is in play, both teams continue the rally until a point is awarded. Unlike tennis, the server’s partner on the same team does not need to alternate serves. Instead, the rotation follows a counterclockwise direction, with the first serve always being hit by the player on the right side of the court.

Tips for Beginners

Now that you have a grasp of the basic scoring system in padel, here are a few tips to help you start scoring efficiently:

1. Focus on consistency: Keep the ball in play, and remember that points are often lost due to unforced errors. Making your opponent work for every point can increase your chances of winning the game.
2. Move your opponents: Use smart shot placement to target the weaker player on the opposing team. By strategically positioning the ball, you can force your opponents into difficult shots.
3. Communicate with your partner: Padel is a doubles game, and effective communication with your partner is key. Discuss tactics, cover each other’s weaknesses, and work together to dominate the court.
4. Master the volley: Being comfortable at the net and mastering your volley is crucial in padel. Volleys allow you to take control of the point, apply pressure on your opponents, and increase your chances of winning each rally.
5. Practice your serves: The serve is the only shot in padel that you have complete control over. Take advantage of this by practicing your serves regularly. Develop different serve variations to keep your opponents guessing.

With these tips and a solid understanding of padel scoring, you are now equipped to step onto the court and start playing like a pro. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there, have fun, and enjoy the exciting world of padel!