The Definitive Guide to Padel Rules

Introduction to Padel

Padel is a fast-growing doubles racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. While it shares similarities with tennis, padel has its own unique set of rules and characteristics. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the key aspects of padel, as governed by the International Padel Federation (FIP).

Equipment

It’s easy to get started with padel, as the equipment required is minimal and readily available at most sports stores. Here’s a breakdown of the essential gear:

• Racket:

  • Short and solid, without strings
  • Features holes on the surface for improved impact and grip
  • Made of composite materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass
  • Maximum length: 45.5 cm
  • Maximum width: 26 cm
  • Maximum thickness: 38 mm

• Ball:

  • Slightly smaller and less pressurized than tennis balls
  • Typically yellow or white in color
  • Bounce height: 135-145 cm when dropped from 2.54 ms

The Court

Padel is played on a court with specific dimensions and features that distinguish it from other racket sports. Here’s an overview of the Padel court:

• Size:

  • 10m wide x 20m long (approximately 1/4 to 1/3 smaller than a tennis court)
  • Total playing area: 200 square meters

• Features:

  • Net in the middle (height: 0.88m at the center, 0.92m at the posts)
  • Service and boundary lines 6.95m from the net
  • Surrounded by glass or transparent walls (3m high at the ends, 4m on the sides)
  • Mesh panels above the walls (total height: 4m)
  • Minimum ceiling height: 6-8m
  • Artificial illumination allowed (if not disruptive to players or spectators)
  • Surface can be concrete, synthetic materials, or artificial turf

Scoring System

• Similar to tennis: 0, 15, 30, 40
• Deuce: When both teams reach 40, first team to score twice in a row wins the game
• Advantage: When a team scores once after deuce
• Match structure:
  • 3 sets per match
  • 6 games per set (must win by 2 games)
  • Tiebreak at 6-6 (first to 7 points, win by 2)
  • Win a set: 2 game advantage (e.g., 6-4, 7-5)
  • Win the match: Best of 3 sets (2 out of 3 sets)

Match Duration and Breaks

• Typical match duration: 60-90 minutes (can vary)
• Warm-up: 5 minutes before the match starts
• Between points: 20 seconds maximum
• Changing sides: 90 seconds (after odd-numbered games)
• Between sets: 120 seconds (2 minutes)
• Medical time-out: 3 minutes (for injuries)

Player Positions and Rotation

• Always played in doubles (2 vs 2)
• One player typically plays defensive (back), one offensive (front)
• Players must rotate positions according to the receiving order:
  • Decided before the match
  • Maintained throughout each set
  • Can be changed between sets

Serving Rules

• Server stands behind the service line (right or left side)
• Ball must be hit at or below waist level
• Serve diagonally to the receiver’s service box
• Ball must bounce in the service box before the receiver can hit it
• Alternate serves between players on the same team
• Two serves allowed (fault on first serve, second serve opportunity)
• Let serve: If the ball touches the net and lands in the correct service box, serve is retaken

Faults and Returns

• Service faults:

  • Crossing the service line before hitting the ball
  • Missing the ball when attempting to serve
  • Ball hits the net and doesn’t land in the service box
  • Ball lands outside the service box
  • Server’s foot touches the court before hitting the ball

• Return faults:

  • Touching the net while the ball is in play
  • Hitting the ball out of bounds
  • Double hits or carries
  • Ball bounces twice on their side before returning
  • Hitting the ball before it crosses the net

• Receiver must let the ball bounce once before returning

• Players can hit the ball after it bounces off the walls or mesh

Ball in Play

• Starts when the server hits the ball
• Remains in play after bouncing on receiver’s court and hitting walls/fence/net
• Players can hit the ball directly or after it bounces off the walls
• Point ends when a team scores or commits a fault
• Ball can be hit with any part of the racket or hand holding the racket

Winning and Losing Points

• Lose a point:

  • Failing to serve or return correctly
  • Touching the net while the ball is in play
  • Ball bounces twice on their side
  • Hitting the ball before it crosses the net
  • Ball touches a player’s body or clothing

• Win a point:

  • Opponent’s error or fault
  • Ball bounces twice on opponent’s side
  • Ball gets stuck in fence/walls after first bounce on opponent’s side
  • Opponent touches the net or crosses onto your side of the court

Out of Court Play

• Allowed in certain circumstances:
  • Player can leave the court to play a ball that has bounced in their court and gone over the wall
  • Must hit the ball before it bounces a second time
• Point can be won if ball is hit before second bounce, even from outside the court
• Players must re-enter the court quickly after an out-of-court play

Additional Rules

• Ball changes:

  • Typically between sets
  • Can be after a predetermined number of games (e.g., every 7 or 9 games)
  • Must be consistent throughout the match

• Etiquette:

  • Wear appropriate sports attire and non-marking shoes
  • Be punctual for matches
  • Show respect to opponents, officials, and spectators
  • Avoid unsportsmanlike conduct (verbal abuse, racket throwing, etc.)
  • Maintain the court and equipment

Conclusion

Understanding these expanded rules will help you play padel fairly and enjoy the game to its fullest. Remember that while knowing the rules is important, the spirit of the game lies in friendly competition and good sportsmanship. Keep this guide handy for reference and to settle any disputes during play. As you gain more experience, these rules will become second nature, allowing you to focus on improving your skills and strategy.