What are the rules of padel?
Padel is dynamic, tactical and great fun, but as a beginner, you'll need to know the official padel rules to get your game off to a good start. Our Padel pro, Lana, explains the rules step-by-step and gives you some practical tips on how to score points and move safely on the court.
What do I need to know before playing padel?
"Every sport has its own rules, but don't worry, in padel, they're quick to pick up", says padel expert Lana. Knowing the rules makes for an enjoyable game for everybody, it becomes more relaxed and it's easier to spot correct moves and fouls. These are the most important basic rules of padel:
Using the walls in a padel court is allowed
A characteristic feature of padel is that the walls are part of the game. After first contact with the ground, the ball is allowed to touch the wall during the game. The walls can even be used to create a tactical advantage. For example, you can play shots with unexpected angles that throw your opponent off their guard. However, the ball must first touch the ground. If it comes straight off the wall into the opponent's court, the point is lost.
How do I serve in padel?
According to padel rules, the serve must be played from below the hips diagonally into your opponents side. "If the ball touches the net, that's no problem - as long as it lands correctly afterwards, the serve counts," Lana adds.
How are padel points counted?
The points system is the same as in tennis: 15, 30, 40, game. To leave the court as the winner, you have to win two out of three sets. "The game is usually played in the best of three sets, so whoever wins two sets first, wins the match." Lana says.
How do I score a point?
You will score a point in padel whenever the ball lands twice in the opponent's court or is played by your opponent into the net. However, if it hits the wall first and then the court, the ball is out and the point goes to the opponent. Touching the net with your racket or body, on the other hand, leads to the loss of points
What are the rules of a padel rally?
Of course, there are also rules on how the rally must take place. The ball may only touch the ground once before being returned. After the ground, it may touch walls. "As long as the ball touches the glass wall after the first bounce, it stays in play," explains Lana. "But if it hits the grid or the floor outside the court first, the ball is out and the point goes to the opponent."
Do I play Padel in singles or doubles?
As a rule, padel is played in doubles: two against two. However, you can also play padel in singles too. There's a smaller court used for this which adjusts the paths of play a little. In singles, you have to run more and react more, which can make tactics even more crucial.
What are padel rules at a glance?
To play padel safely, you should stick to the rules. Here is an overview of the most common situations that could lead to discussions during a match:
The ball hits the wall before it hits the ground: ❌Not allowed. -> The ball must always touch the ground first.
Serve with the hand above the hip: ❌Not allowed. -> The serve must be below the hip.
Ball bounces twice at the opponent: ✅ Point for you -> If the opponent does not play the ball on the first ground contact, you get the point.
Playing over the side wall after ground contact: ✅ Allowed -> A common tactic, especially in defence.
Body contact with the ball: ❌ Not allowed -> Only the racket may touch the ball.
Avoid rule violations
Rule violations can quickly become a disadvantage on the court and cost you valuable points. That's why national player and coach Lana recommends: "Learn the rules of padel for serving and scoring points, as well as what will loose you points. These are simple but crucial."
If you're playing doubles, communication can also be an important factor. "Padel is a team game, so talk to each other about who takes which ball," advises Lana.
Why is it important to know padel rules?
The rules are important to score points, but also to be able to play tactically. From the right serving technique to the correct way to use the wall in the game, with a little understanding of the rules, you can get off to a smooth start. Whether in doubles or singles, for a friendly game or at a tournament, if you know what is allowed, you will not only play more safely, but will also enjoy the sport more. So, racket in hand, rules in mind get ready for your next padel match!
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Frequently asked questions about the padel rules
Only underhand and below the hip. The ball must bounce once before the shot.
Yes, but only after contact with the ground. Walls are a tactical part of the game.
Once. The point is lost on the second contact with the ground.
When your opponent bounces the ball into the net or out of the court or when you when you play a shot that bounces twice on your opponents side.
