The Rules of Padel | Simply Explained
Padel might be the fastest-growing sport in the Netherlands, but what are the rules? Do you have to serve like in tennis? Are you allowed to use the glass wall? And when is a ball "in"?
If you're just starting out or just want to check if you're doing it right, these are the basic rules of padel , explained in clear language. No textbooks, just everything you need to know to play comfortably.
1. The court: smaller than tennis, but with walls
A padel court is 20 meters long and 10 meters wide, surrounded by glass walls and fencing. And yes, the walls are part of the game , just like in squash.
2. The service: underhand and diagonal
You serve underhand , with one bounce on the ground. The ball must land diagonally into the opponent's service box.
Just like in tennis, you are allowed to serve twice .
3. The ball is 'in' when it…
... first bounces within the lines. Then, if necessary, they can bounce off the wall. If they hit the wall without bouncing, it's over .
Note: You can also use the glass back wall on your own side to play ball. Clever, huh?
4. Touch only once
You can only hit the ball once per team , just like in tennis. And you ca n't let it bounce twice before returning it.
5. Scoring = tennis style
Scoring: Simple once you know it
The scoring goes as follows: 0, 15, 30, 40, game .
At 40-40 you have juice (equal).
If you win the next point, you have an advantage .
If you win another point after that, it's game time .
Lose that point? Then it's juice again.
Bonus: You might not have known this yet…
- You can run outside the cage to hit a ball back – really!
- If the ball comes back through the fence (and not through the ground), it's out
- The PadelGrab is not an official rule, but it will make your game faster (and more fun)
Ready to play?
With these rules in mind, you're ready to hit the court. And remember: padel is all about fun. So keep it sporty, encourage each other, and use smart gadgets to stay in rhythm.