Padel is straightforward to pick up but has enough depth to keep you improving for years. Here are the basics.
The court
A padel court is 20×10 metres, enclosed by glass walls and metal mesh fencing. The net is lower in the centre than at the posts. The walls are in play — balls can be hit off them after bouncing, just like in squash.
How to serve
The serve is always underarm. Drop the ball and hit it at or below waist height, cross-court into the service box. It must bounce in the box before the return. If it hits a side or back wall after bouncing, it's still in play. You get two attempts.
Scoring
Scoring is identical to tennis: 15, 30, 40, game. First to six games wins a set (tiebreak at 6–6). Most matches are best of three sets. Either team can win points on any rally.
Using the walls
This is what makes padel different. After the ball bounces on your side, you can let it come off the back or side wall and still play it. This keeps rallies alive that would end in tennis. Defensively, the back wall buys time. Offensively, wall angles create shots your opponents can't read.
Tips for wall play:
- Watch the ball all the way off the wall before committing to your shot
- Let the ball drop lower off the wall for more control
- Side walls near the net work well for angled winners
- Use the back wall to reset under pressure rather than forcing a difficult return
Before your first session
Most clubs hire rackets and balls. Wear padel-specific shoes if you can. Once you buy your own racket, keep it in a COVR cover — it's the easiest way to protect your investment between sessions.