For Beginners

Padel Rules For Beginners

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Padel is played only as doubles on a specific court enclosed by glass and mesh walls. The court is divided into two service boxes on each side of the net, creating a unique playing experience[1].

Basic Rules for Beginners:

  • Scoring: Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis. To win a set, you need to win six games with a lead of at least two games. The typical game points are 15, 30, 40, and game. At 40-40 (‘deuce’), a player must win two consecutive points to win the game[1][7].
  • Serve: Points start with an underarm serve. The serve must be hit after the ball bounces behind the service line and must land diagonally in the opponent’s service box. The ball must be struck below waist level[1][3]. Players get two attempts to serve, much like in tennis. If the ball touches the fence before bouncing in the service box, it’s considered out[1][3].
  • During Play: After the serve, each shot must clear the net and bounce on the court before hitting any wall or fence. Once the ball has bounced on the court, it can rebound off any wall and still be in-play. If the ball hits the wall or cage before bouncing, the point is lost[1][3].
  • Bounces: You are allowed only one bounce before returning the ball. If the ball bounces twice on your side, your opponents win the point[1].
  • Walls and Out-of-Bounds: The glass and mesh walls are an integral part of the game. The ball remains in play as long as it only bounces once before being played, even after rebounding off a wall. Occasionally, the ball may bounce and go out of the court; advanced players can try to return it from outside via the doors if done before it bounces again[1][7].
  • No Double Hits: Hitting the ball twice in the same shot is not allowed[7].
  • Net Contact: Touching the net with your racket, body, or clothing during play results in losing the point[7].
  • Safety Strap: Always play with the racket’s safety strap fastened for everyone’s protection[7].

Court Dimensions:

  • A standard padel court measures 20 meters long by 10 meters wide and is fully enclosed by glass and mesh walls[2][4][6]. The back wall is typically 10 feet high, with the side walls decreasing toward the net[6].
  • There are service boxes on each half of the court—important for serves and positioning. It’s recommended to have a minimum 2-meter clearance around the court’s perimeter for safety[2].

Key Beginner Tips:

  • Always return to one of the two basic positions: at the net (for attacking) or at the back near the glass (for defense)—avoid standing in between. Your goal when defending is to try to reach the net; when attacking from the net, move opponents and look for opportunities to win the point[5].
  • Use walls tactically to extend rallies and develop your shot selection as you gain confidence[5].

References

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