What are the rules of padel?

Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash and is typically played in doubles on an enclosed court. Here are some basic rules of padel:

  1. Scoring:

    • Padel is usually played in sets, with each set consisting of six games.
    • The scoring system is the same as in tennis (15, 30, 40, game), and a player/team must win two points in a row to win a game.

  2. Serving:

    • The serve must be underhand and hit diagonally into the opponent's service box, similar to tennis.
    • The server must stand behind the baseline and hit the ball below the waist level.
    • The serve must bounce in the server's own service box and then in the opponent's service box.

  3. Service Faults:

    • If the serve hits the net and lands in the correct service box, it is a "let" and the server gets another attempt.
    • The server is not allowed to step on or over the service box lines during the serve.
    • The server must wait for the receiver to be ready before serving.

  4. Volleys and Walls:

    • Players are allowed to play the ball off the walls of the court, similar to squash.
    • However, the ball must bounce in the opponent's court before it hits the back wall.

  5. Points and Scoring:

    • Points are scored when the opposing team fails to return the ball within the allowed boundaries.
    • The ball can only bounce once before being returned.
    • If the ball hits the wire mesh on the walls or ceiling, the point is lost.

  6. Faults:

    • If a player hits the ball out of bounds, it results in a fault.
    • Players are not allowed to touch the net or any part of the opponent's court.

  7. Change of Ends:

    • Players change ends after the first, third, and every subsequent odd game in each set.

  8. Tiebreaks:

    • If a set reaches a 6-6 tie, a tiebreak is typically played to determine the winner of that set.

These rules provide a basic overview of how padel is played. It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with any specific rules and regulations of the facility where you are playing, as variations may exist.