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How to Play Padel: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Mar. 04, 2026

1. What is Padel?

Padel is a mix between tennis and squash. It is typically played in doubles on an enclosed court made of glass and mesh, which is about 25% smaller than a traditional tennis court.

How to Play Padel: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide


2. Essential Equipment

To get started, you don't need much, but the gear is specific:

  • The Padel Racket: Unlike tennis rackets, these are "stringless." They are made of composite materials with holes and are thicker/shorter.

  • The Balls: They look like tennis balls but have slightly less pressure, making them bounce lower.

  • The Court: Surrounded by glass walls and metallic fences, which are part of the game.


3. The Basic Rules

The Serve

  • All serves must be underhand.

  • The ball must be hit at or below waist level.

  • The server must bounce the ball once behind the service line before hitting it.

  • The serve must land cross-court in the opponent's service box.

Scoring

Padel uses the same scoring system as Tennis:

  • 15, 30, 40, Game.

  • If the score reaches 40-40, it is called Deuce.

  • Usually played as "Best of 3 Sets."

Using the Walls

This is what makes Padel unique!

  • The ball must always hit the ground first on the opponent's side before hitting a wall.

  • Once it bounces on the ground, it can hit the glass or fence any number of times and still be in play.

  • You can also hit the ball against your own glass wall to send it over the net to the other side.


4. Key Gameplay Tactics

  1. The Net is King: In Padel, the pair at the net usually has the advantage. The goal is to move forward and stay there.

  2. The Lob: This is the most important shot in Padel. A good lob forces your opponents away from the net and allows you to take control.

  3. Communication: Since the court is small and the game is fast, talk to your partner! Use phrases like "Yours!", "Mine!", or "Out!".

  4. Patience: Don't try to smash every ball. Wait for the right opening.


5. Summary Table for Quick Reference

FeaturePadel TennisTraditional Tennis
ServeUnderhand (waist height)Overhand
WallsIncluded in playOut of bounds
RacketSolid with holesStringed
PlayersAlways 2 vs 2 (Doubles)Singles or Doubles

Pro Tip: When the ball is coming towards the back glass, don't panic! Let it bounce, hit the glass, and then strike it as it moves forward. You have more time than you think.

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