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The rules of padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis , squash and badminton , have been adapted to make the game fast and exciting.
We present to you the basic rules of padel, while for more detailed information you can visit the official page of the International Padel Federation (FIP) where you can find the complete Rulebook on padel
A player starts a point by serving diagonally across the court, similar to tennis. However, the serve must be made below the waist, and the ball must first bounce off the floor before hitting. The player is entitled to two service attempts.
The scoring system in padel is identical to that in tennis. Players score points, games, sets and matches using the same progressive scoring system of 15, 30 and 40, with deuce rules applied when the score is tied at 40-40.
One of the most prominent rules in padel is the ability to use walls to bounce the ball. If the ball hits the wall and continues to move within the bounds of the court, play continues. This rule adds additional tactical depth to the game.
Although most padel matches are played outdoors, the rules allow for a variety of surfaces, including grass, gravel or synthetic materials, as long as they provide adequate bounce to the ball.
Padel is most often played in pairs, which means that strategy and rules involve coordination and communication between partners. The rules of service, rotation, scoring and positioning apply with respect to both players.
As in other sports, play may be interrupted due to inclement weather, injuries or other emergencies. The rules for resuming play after an interruption are strictly defined in order to preserve fair and impartial competition.
Yes, the ball can hit the cage (metal fence) after it first bounces on the court. If the ball directly hits the cage without first making contact with the court, it is considered an invalid shot.
Scoring in padel is similar to tennis. Games are scored as 15, 30, 40 and then game. A set is won by winning six games, with a difference of two games between the opponents. If the score is 6-6, a tie-break is played.
Padel is usually a four-player game, where each team has two players. However, “single” padel can also be played with one player on each side, although this is not a standard format.
Illegal service includes: wrong position when serving (eg crossing the service line before the shot), hitting the ball above the waist, or if the ball first hits a wall or cage before bouncing in the opponent’s court.
Yes, the smash shot is allowed and is often used in padel, especially when players want the ball to fly over a fence or wall, forcing opponents to leave the court to retrieve it.
The ball can hit the glass after first bouncing on the court. If a player hits the ball directly into the glass without first bouncing, the shot is considered invalid.
Yes, players can use spin in padel shots to change the trajectory or speed of the ball, which can make it harder for opponents to return it.
Yes, techniques like “top spin” and “slice” are common in padel. Players often use these techniques to add spin to the ball, which can affect its trajectory and make it difficult for opponents to predict its movement.
