Rules & Gameplay

Question 1

What are the basic rules of padel?

Accepted Answer

Padel is played in doubles on an enclosed court. The ball is served underhand and must bounce once on the receiving side. After that, the ball can hit the walls. Scoring is like tennis (15, 30, 40, game). The ball must not bounce twice on your side or go out before the second bounce.

Question 2

How is scoring done in padel?

Accepted Answer

Scoring is the same as tennis: 15, 30, 40, game. You need to win by two points at deuce (or use a golden point). Sets are usually best of 6 games (tie-break at 6-6). A match is often best of 3 sets.

Question 3

What is the correct padel serve technique?

Accepted Answer

The serve is underhand, from behind the baseline, and the ball must bounce in the opposite service box. The server can use the walls after the bounce in some variants. The ball is hit below waist height.

Question 4

Can the ball hit the walls in padel?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After the ball has bounced once on the ground, it can hit the glass or walls and stay in play. You can play it off the walls. The ball must not bounce twice on your side before you hit it.

Question 5

What are the padel court dimensions?

Accepted Answer

A standard padel court is 20 m long and 10 m wide (including the glass). The net is 88 cm high in the centre. The court is enclosed by walls (glass or solid) at the back and often on the sides.

Question 6

How many players are on a padel court?

Accepted Answer

Padel is usually played with four players (doubles): two per side. Singles (two players) is possible on the same court but less common; some clubs or tournaments offer it.

Question 7

Can you play padel singles (1v1)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can play 1v1 (singles) on a padel court. The court is the same size; the game is faster and more physically demanding. Not all clubs or tournaments offer singles.

Question 8

What happens when the ball hits the glass and goes over?

Accepted Answer

If the ball hits the glass and goes over the wall without touching the ground again in the court, it is out and the point goes to the other team. If it bounces in the court after hitting the glass, it is still in play.

Question 9

What is a "vibora" shot in padel?

Accepted Answer

The vibora is an attacking shot, often played with topspin from the back or mid-court, with a wrist snap. It is used to put pressure on the opponents or finish the point. It requires good technique and timing.

Question 10

What is a "bandeja" shot in padel?

Accepted Answer

The bandeja is a defensive or neutral shot, usually hit from the back of the court with an open racket face, like a tray. It keeps the ball in play and can be used to reset or slow down the rally. It is one of the fundamental shots in padel.

Question 11

What are the most common padel strategies for beginners?

Accepted Answer

Focus on keeping the ball in play, playing to the middle to reduce angles, and moving as a pair (one up, one back when appropriate). Use the walls, avoid overhitting, and try to get to the net when you can. Communication with your partner is key.

Question 12

How long does a typical padel match last?

Accepted Answer

A typical social match can last 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Competitive matches (e.g. best of 3 sets) can last 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the level and format.

Question 13

What is the "golden point" rule in padel?

Accepted Answer

At deuce (40-40), some competitions use a "golden point": the next point wins the game (receiving team chooses who receives). It speeds up play and is common in amateur and social play.

Question 14

What are the differences between padel and paddle tennis?

Accepted Answer

Paddle tennis (platform tennis) is often played in the US on a smaller, elevated court with a different ball. Padel uses a court similar in size to a tennis court but enclosed, and a ball similar to tennis. Rules and scoring also differ slightly.

Question 15

What is the best position to play on a padel court?

Accepted Answer

There is no single "best" position; it depends on the situation. In general, one player close to the net and one covering the back works well. Move together, cover the middle, and try to take the net when you have the advantage.

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