Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, played on an enclosed court surrounded by glass and mesh walls. Understanding the basic rules of padel helps beginners follow matches and learn how points are won. The game is usually played in doubles format, and rallies can involve rebounds off the surrounding walls. While the scoring system is similar to tennis, the use of walls adds a unique strategic layer.
Objective of the Game
The objective in padel is to score points by hitting the ball over the net so that it lands in the opponent’s court and cannot be returned legally. Points are scored using the traditional tennis system of 15, 30, 40, and game. Matches are typically played in a best-of-three sets format, with each set won by the first team to reach six games with a two-game advantage. If the score reaches six games each, a tiebreak is usually played.
Structure and Format of Play
Padel is almost always played as doubles, with two players on each side. Serves must be underhand and hit diagonally into the opponent’s service box. After the ball bounces once on the receiving side, players may return it before or after it rebounds off the glass walls. The ball must bounce once on the ground before touching a wall on the receiving side. Proper positioning and communication are essential in doubles play.
Key Rules and Violations
Common faults include serving above waist height, hitting the ball directly into an opponent’s court without a bounce during a serve, or allowing the ball to bounce twice before returning it. The ball must stay within court boundaries, including valid wall rebounds. Official matches are overseen by referees who ensure adherence to scoring and service rules.