Padel is a dynamic and engaging sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Played predominantly in doubles, it offers a unique blend of strategy, skill, and fun. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the basic rules of padel:
The Court and Equipment
Padel is played on an enclosed court that is 10 meters wide and 20 meters long, with walls made of glass and metal mesh. The court is divided by a net, and the walls play a crucial role in the game, as the ball can be played off them.
Players use solid, stringless rackets with perforations and low-pressure tennis balls, which affect the ball’s bounce.
Starting the Game
A match begins with a coin toss to decide which team serves first and which side of the court they start on. The serve must be underhand and below waist height, and it must land diagonally in the opponent’s service box. Each player has two chances to make a successful serve.
Scoring System
The scoring in padel is similar to tennis:
– Points are counted as 15, 30, 40, and game.
– If both teams reach 40, it’s called deuce, and a team must win by two consecutive points to win the game.
– A set is won by the first team to win six games with at least a two-game lead.
– If the set reaches 6-6, a tie-break is played, where the first team to reach seven points with a two-point lead wins the set.
Gameplay
Padel is typically played in doubles, with teams of two players each. The ball must bounce once on the opponent’s side before it can be returned, but it can also bounce off the walls. Players can hit the ball before or after it bounces off the walls, adding a strategic element to the game.
The ball is in play until it bounces twice on the ground, hits the fencing directly, or a player fails to return it correctly. Players can also lose points if the ball hits them or their partner, or if they touch the net during play.
Changing Ends and Breaks
Players change ends after the first game and then every two games. During a tie-break, ends are changed every six points. Players are allowed a 90-second break when changing ends and a two-minute break between sets.
Winning the Match
A match is typically played as the best of three sets. The team that wins two sets first is declared the winner of the match.
Conclusion
Padel is a fast-paced and exciting sport that is easy to learn but challenging to master. Its unique combination of tennis and squash elements, along with the strategic use of walls, makes it a thrilling game for players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding these basic rules will help you enjoy the game to its fullest.
