What seemed like a simple game between friends can end up in an argument if the rules are not known. padel rules. Many disagreements arise when the rules of tennis are applied by mistake, something common in beginner players. Knowing the official rules avoids confusion and ensures a fun and orderly game.
In Spain, the regulations are regulated by the Spanish Padel Federation (FEP), in accordance with the rules of the International Padel Federation (FIP). You can consult the Official regulations of the FEP to see the full detail.
Official track measurements
The regulatory measures of the field are 10 meters wide by 20 meters long, with a tolerance of 0.5%. The network should rise to 0.92m at the ends and 0.88m in the center. The background has 4 meters high (minimum 3 of wall) and the sides alternate areas of 3 and 2 meters plus 1 of metal mesh.
Regarding the soil, the FEP allows materials such as artificial grass, porous or synthetic concrete, as long as they guarantee a regular boat and avoid waterlogging. To learn about the differences between surface types and how they affect footwear, consult our guide to padel shoe soles.
Serve: basic rules
The serve starts each point and must be executed behind the service line. The player must bounce the ball and hit it at or below waist height, without running or jumping during the execution. The ball must go over the net and bounce into the opponent's receiving box.
If it touches the net but lands in the correct square, it repeats. The server has two chances; If you miss both, you lose the point. You can improve your consistency by practicing with approved balls and reviewing our article on how to improve the serve in paddle tennis.
Rules of the game and types of shots
Once in play, the point ends only if any of these situations occur:
- The ball bounces twice on the ground.
- A player or his racket touches the net or the posts.
- The ball is hit before it crosses the net.
- The ball hits the fence or glass before bouncing into the rival field.
- The paddle is thrown to hit the ball or both players hit it at the same time.
Any other shot (volley, spike, viper, drive...) is valid as long as it respects these rules. You can find a guide to paddle strokes with practical examples and videos.
Other essential rules
The scoring system is the same as tennis: 15, 30, 40 and game. In case of a tie (40–40), “equals” and “advantage” apply. To win a set are needed 6 games with a difference of two. If there are 6–6, it is played tie break at 7 points (with two of advantage).
To master the game strategy according to the score, we recommend you read how scoring works in padel.
Can you leave the court to return the ball?
SYo. If the ball bounces in the opponent's field and goes out through a door or opening, the player can go out and return it from outside, always without interrupting the game. It is a spectacular and valid play according to the FEP.
How many balls are used in paddle tennis?
The regulation allows 2 or 3 balls per game, depending on the competition. All of them must have regular pressure and pot. You can see our selection of official balls with real stock and 24 hour shipping.
