How to Play Padel: Complete Beginner’s Guide to Rules, Scoring & Tips

Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, combining elements of tennis and squash into a dynamic, social, and easy-to-learn game. Whether you are new to racket sports or looking to try something different, this guide will teach you how to play padel, covering rules, scoring, court layout, and essential tips.

What Is Padel?

Padel is a doubles racket sport played on an enclosed court slightly smaller than a tennis court. Unlike tennis, padel uses solid rackets without strings and allows the ball to bounce off the glass walls, adding a strategic and exciting dimension to the game.

The Padel Court Explained

A standard padel court measures 20 meters long by 10 meters wide and is surrounded by glass and metal mesh walls. The court is divided by a net, similar to tennis, but the enclosed walls are an active part of play.

• Glass walls at the back and sides can be used after the ball bounces
• Service boxes are marked like a tennis court
• Padel is almost always played as doubles

Padel Equipment You Need

To start playing padel, you will need the following equipment:

• Padel racket: Solid, perforated, and shorter than a tennis racket
• Padel balls: Similar to tennis balls but with slightly less pressure
• Padel shoes: Designed for grip and lateral movement
• Comfortable sportswear

Padel Rules for Beginners

Understanding the basic padel rules is essential before stepping onto the court. While padel shares similarities with tennis, there are key differences.

Serving Rules

• The serve must be underhand
• The ball must bounce before being hit
• Serve diagonally into the opponent’s service box
• The serve must be below waist height

During the Rally

• The ball must bounce once before hitting the glass walls
• Volleys are allowed, except on the serve return
• The ball can bounce off the walls after touching the ground
• Players can use the walls on their own side

How Does Padel Scoring Work?

Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis, making it easy for beginners to understand.

• Points: 15, 30, 40, game
• At 40–40, the game goes to deuce
• Advantage is played to win the game
• Matches are usually played best of three sets

Basic Padel Techniques

Mastering a few fundamental padel shots will quickly improve your game.

• Forehand and backhand: Controlled and compact swings
• Volley: Key for dominating the net
• Lob: Essential for pushing opponents away from the net
• Smash: Used to finish points when positioned correctly

Padel Strategy Tips for Beginners

Padel is more about positioning and teamwork than raw power. Keep these tips in mind when starting out:

• Play as a team and communicate with your partner
• Move together and maintain net position
• Use lobs to regain control of the point
• Be patient and wait for the right opportunity

Why Padel Is So Popular

Padel’s popularity comes from its accessibility and social nature. It is easy to learn, suitable for all ages, and perfect for friendly matches, tournaments, and competitive play. Many players find padel more enjoyable than tennis due to longer rallies and strategic gameplay.

Start Playing Padel Today

Now that you know how to play padel, the best next step is to get on the court. Join a local club, book a court, or enter a beginner padel tournament to put your new knowledge into action. With practice and teamwork, you will quickly improve and enjoy everything this exciting sport has to offer.