Padel Serving Rules: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

Padel is a sport that has grown in popularity over the years. Originating from Mexico, this game combines elements from tennis and squash. The serve is one of the most important aspects of the game, and it is essential to understand the rules governing it. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate guide to padel serving rules for beginners.

The Serve

The serve is the start of every point in padel. To start the game, the server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball into the opponent’s service box diagonally across the court. The ball must cross the net and land in the service box. If the ball hits the net and lands in the service box, it is considered a let, and the server is allowed to serve again without any penalty.

Foot Faults

In padel, the server must keep both feet behind the baseline until they hit the ball. If the server steps on or over the baseline before hitting the ball, it is considered a foot fault. A foot fault results in the loss of the serve, with the opponent awarded the point.

The Receiver’s Position

The receiver must stand in the opposite service box to the server. The receiver cannot move until the server hits the ball. If the receiver moves before the ball is hit, it is considered a fault, and the server is awarded the point.

The Let Rule

A let is a situation where the ball hits the net during the serve, but still lands in the service box. If this happens, the serve is retaken without penalty. However, if the ball hits the net and lands outside the service box, it is considered a fault.

The Double Bounce Rule

When the ball is served, it must bounce once in the service box before the receiver can return it. Once the receiver returns the serve, the ball must bounce once in the opposing service box before the server can return it. This is known as the double bounce rule. The ball can then bounce as many times as it needs to before being hit again.

The Fault Rule

If the serve fails to clear the net or lands out of the service box, it is considered a fault. The opposing team is awarded the point, and the next serve is switched to their side.

The Fault Rectification Rule

If the server commits any fault during the serve, they are allowed to rectify it and retake the serve without penalty. This rule applies as long as the server has not hit the ball yet.

Conclusion

Padel is a fast-paced and exciting sport suitable for all ages. Understanding the rules of padel serving is essential to playing the game effectively. For beginners, it can seem daunting, but with practice, you are sure to get better. With this guide, you should now have a good idea of how to serve in padel and what the rules are.

Remember, the serve is the most crucial shot in padel, and it can determine who wins and who loses the game. Make sure to practice your serve regularly and follow the rules to ensure a fair game. Rules padel serve may seem complex at first, but with time, they become second nature.