FAQ

Padel is a sociable sport gaining popularity in the UK, appealing to all ages and skill levels due to its easy-to-understand nature, often likened to a blend of tennis and squash.

No, padel differs from tennis in that it involves walls, allowing players to use them similar to squash.

No, padel and pickleball are distinct racquet sports often confused due to their equipment and court similarities, but they differ significantly in court dimensions, racquet sizes, ball types, and scoring rules.

Padel's popularity stems from its easy learning curve and social nature.

Points in padel are awarded if the ball bounces twice on one's side, hits a player, touches the fencing or posts, or hits the walls before landing in the opponent's court

In padel, typically played in pairs, the game adopts tennis scoring. Each point begins with an underarm serve from the right service court, directed diagonally into the opponent's court, akin to tennis. The server must allow the ball to bounce once before striking it and ensure the contact is at or below waist level. At least one foot must remain on the ground during the serve, without crossing the service line. Contact with the ball over the center service line is permissible.

The serve must land in the opponent's service box. If the ball bounces within the service box and hits the side or back walls, it remains in play and the opponent must return it. If the serve hits the net before bouncing in the service box and then hits the side or back walls, it is replayed (known as a let). A serve that lands in the service box but hits the wire fencing is considered a fault, as is one that hits the net and then the wire fencing after landing in the service box. Like tennis, a second serve is allowed if the first is faulty.

During the initial serve, the lines are in play, but subsequently, they do not affect the point's outcome. Players can play the ball off any wall on their own side of the court, adding a strategic element unique to padel.

Padel is generally considered easier to pick up than tennis. The court is smaller, the walls can be used strategically, and the underhand serve is more accessible for beginners. However, like any sport, it has its own unique challenges and techniques to master.

No, padel requires specific padel balls. While they may look similar to tennis balls, padel balls have a slightly lower pressure and different bounce characteristics designed for the padel court.

Yes, having experience in tennis or other racket sports can be beneficial. Skills like hand-eye coordination, racket handling, and footwork are transferable. However, there are unique aspects of padel that you will need to learn, such as playing off the walls.

Yes, hitting the ball off the glass or caging is an integral part of padel. You can use the walls to your advantage both defensively and offensively, creating angles and extending rallies.

Yes, you can hit the ball onto the glass or caging during a rally. This is a common tactic in padel to create difficult returns for your opponents by using the walls to change the ball's direction and speed.

No, padel requires a specific padel racket. Padel rackets are solid with perforations, unlike the strung tennis rackets. They are also shorter and designed to provide more control and maneuverability within the smaller court and wall boundaries.

While not mandatory, taking lessons can significantly improve your skills and understanding of the game. Lessons can help you learn the rules, develop proper techniques, and understand the strategic use of walls.

Yes, you can smash the ball out of the court. This is often a powerful and impressive play called a "bandeja" or "vibora." However, this shot requires precision and skill to execute effectively and is usually done to win a point outright.

No, the ball can only bounce once on your side before it must be returned. If it bounces twice, the point is awarded to the opposing team. You can also play the ball off the walls before it bounces again.

Padel is a very safe sport in which injuries are rare if you are prepared and warm up and exercise regularly. It is a very fun and addictive sport to play!

As with any physical sports, common injuries include sprains, strains, and minor bruises. However, with proper warm-up, technique, and equipment, you can minimize the risk. It's always a good idea to play within your limits and seek professional advice if you're new to the sport.