Padel General Rules
Simple, elegant, and designed for all levels of play.
Padel is a dynamic doubles sport that blends elements of tennis and squash. Easy to learn yet tactically rich, it’s governed by official international rules with a few unique twists.
The Court
- Dimensions: 10 meters wide × 20 meters long (enclosed by glass and mesh walls).
- Net Height: 88 cm at the center.
- Surroundings: The ball can bounce off walls after hitting the ground – a key part of the game.
- Doubles format only (2 vs. 2).
- Teams switch sides after every odd-numbered game.
- Identical to tennis: 0 (Love), 15, 30, 40, Game.
- If both teams reach 40-40, it’s Deuce – a team must win two consecutive points to take the game.
- Sets: Typically best of 3 sets; a set is won by the first team to win 6 games with a 2-game advantage.
- If tied 6-6, a tie-break (first to 7 points, 2-point lead) is played.
- Underhand only, with the ball bounced once before striking it below waist level.
- The serve must land in the diagonal opponent’s service box.
- Players have two serve attempts per point.
- If the ball hits the net and lands correctly in the box, it’s a let serve (replayed).
- The ball must first bounce once on the ground before hitting a wall.
- After bouncing, it can hit any glass or mesh fence and still be returned.
- The ball is out if:
- It bounces twice.
- Hits a player or their clothing.
- Touches walls before bouncing on the court.
- Bounces outside the court area.
- A let is replayed – e.g., if play is interrupted or a valid serve touches the net.
- A fault results from missed serves, double bounces, or hitting the ball out.
- Courtesy and sportsmanship are essential – respect teammates, opponents, officials, and rules.
- Unsportsmanlike behavior (e.g., racket abuse, verbal insults) may result in warnings, point/game penalties, or disqualification.
- For more detailed information in regards to this section, please read our Code of Conduct: Court Etiquette and Behavior policy.