Start your first match with these padel basics. Ask your club which scoring format applies.
Players and scoring
Standard padel is doubles. Points usually run 15, 30, 40, game. A standard set is six games with a two-game lead, with a tie-break at 6–6. Deciding-point and alternative formats exist.
The serve
Serve underarm after bouncing the ball within your service area. Strike at or below waist height, with at least one foot grounded, behind the service line and clear of the centre-line extension. Serve diagonally into the receiving box, alternating sides. You have two attempts.
The receiver must let the serve bounce. A serve that hits the metal fence after its first bounce and before its second is a fault.
Rallies and walls
Return the ball before its second ground bounce. During rallies, it may rebound from your enclosure after bouncing on your side. Your return must bounce in the opponents’ court before hitting their wall or fence. Volleys are permitted during rallies, but not when receiving serve.
Common faults
A double fault, second bounce or touching the net during play loses the point.
For competition details and exceptions, read the official FIP Rules of Padel.
Build confidence on court
Begin with a few gentle rallies and practise a consistent serve. Talk to your partner before the point and ask a coach to help with positioning.
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