Padel Rules Explained – Quick Beginner’s Guide to How Padel Is Played

Padel Rules Explained – Quick Beginner’s Guide to How Padel Is Played

Padel Rules Explained: Quick & Easy Guide to the Official Regulations

Padel is exploding in popularity across the globe, and it’s easy to see why.  It combines the fast pace of tennis with the strategy of squash. If you're new to the sport or looking to brush up on the official padel rules, this is the guide for you.

We've broken down everything from scoring to walls to help you get rally-ready in minutes, whether you're a player, coach, or padel-curious beginner.

How Many Players in Padel?

Padel is played in doubles format  2 vs. 2. That’s standard in recreational and professional play. Singles courts do exist but are rare.

Scoring & Match Format

  • Games: 15 – 30 – 40 – Deuce – Advantage – Game
  • Sets: First to 6 games, must win by 2
  • Tiebreaker: Played at 6–6 (first to 7 points, win by 2)
  • Golden Point: At 40–40, one sudden-death point decides the game (pro matches)
  • Change Sides: Every odd-numbered game

Serving Rules

  • Serves must be underhand, struck below waist height
  • The ball must bounce behind the service line before hitting it
  • Must land diagonally in the opponent’s service box
  • No fence contact allowed on the serve — glass rebound is OK

Wall & Fence Rules

  • Glass walls are in play — after the ball bounces
  • You may play a ball off your own glass defensively
  • If the ball hits the fence before bouncing, it's out
  • Strategic rebounds are a huge part of high-level play

How to Win a Point

  • Opponent fails to return the ball before second bounce
  • Opponent hits the ball out of bounds or into the net
  • Opponent touches the net or makes a body contact foul
  • Faulty serve or incorrect return (volleying outside the court)

Common Beginner Mistakes

  1. Serving too high or hitting the fence on serve
  2. Standing too close to the net too early
  3. Trying to hit every shot like a tennis smash
  4. Forgetting to use walls defensively
  5. Miscommunicating with your partner

Padel Rules Summary Table

Rule Explanation
Players Doubles (2 vs. 2)
Scoring Same as tennis (15–30–40–Game)
Serve Underhand, cross-court, must bounce
Walls in Play Yes, after bounce
Fence in Play No, never directly
Golden Point Used at 40–40 in pro matches

Gear Up Before You Step On Court

If you're ready to start playing, make sure you're equipped with quality padel gear. Our collection features breathable, stylish, and durable pieces designed for movement and match play.

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Final Word

Padel is meant to be fun, fast, and social. Learn the rules, grab your gear, and get out on court because the best way to understand padel… is to play it.

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