Padel tennis is a great way to stay active and have fun with friends. It’s a fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It’s also easy to learn, and with the right knowledge, you can master the rules of padel tennis. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started, including padel tennis equipment, court size, scoring, and rules.
If you’re new to the sport, learning the rules and basics is essential for getting started.
At our Padel Tennis Club in Cyprus, we offer a range of resources to help you learn the rules of Padel Tennis. Our expert coaches can offer guidance and advice on everything from scoring to court dimensions and etiquette.
In addition to our coaching, we also offer a range of Padel Tennis Lessons in Cyprus for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your game, our experienced coaches can help you develop your skills and strategy.
What is Padel Tennis?
Padel tennis is a sport that is similar to tennis and squash, but with some key differences. It is played on a smaller court than tennis and has walls that can be used to hit the ball back into play. The scoring system is also different, with points awarded for shots that hit the walls. The net is also lower than tennis and positioned closer to the middle of the court.
Padel tennis is becoming increasingly popular around the world, with many new courts opening up in cities across the globe. It’s a great way to stay active and have fun with friends.
Padel Tennis Equipment
Before you start playing padel tennis, you’ll need to get the right equipment. You’ll need a racket, a padel tennis ball, and the right clothes.
Rackets come in a variety of sizes and materials. A padel racket unlike a tennis or squash racket, has no strings and is typically made of carbon fibre or fiberglass. Fiberglass is cheaper to make, so you will find usually find them in the lower end, suitable as a beginner racket. Carbon fibre is used in the more intermediate to advanced rackets. The size of the racket will depend on your height and playing style.
The padel tennis ball is similar to a tennis ball, but with a slightly softer feel.
Finally, you’ll need to wear the right clothes. Padel tennis is a fast-paced game, so it’s important to wear clothes that are comfortable and allow you to move freely. Look for breathable fabrics and lightweight materials.
The Court
Padel tennis is played on a court that’s smaller than a traditional tennis court. The court measures 10 meters wide by 20 meters long, with a net that’s 0.88 meters high in the center. The court is divided into two halves by the net, and each half is further divided into two service boxes and are 1.5 meters wide and 3 meters long.
Scoring
Padel tennis is scored using the same system as traditional tennis, with games, sets, and matches. A game is won by the first team to win four points, with a two-point lead. The points are scored as follows:
- Love: 0 points
- 15: 1 point
- 30: 2 points
- 40: 3 points
- Game: 4 points
If the score is tied at 40-40, it’s called deuce. The next point is called advantage, and if the team with the advantage wins the next point, they win the game. If the team without the advantage wins the next point, the score goes back to deuce.
Padel Tennis Rules
Padel tennis is a fast-paced sport, so it’s important to understand the rules before you start playing. Here are the basics:
- Serve Rules: The serve is one of the most important shots in padel tennis, and it must be performed underhand. The server must stand behind the baseline, and the ball must be hit with the racket below waist level. The serve must land in the diagonally opposite service box, and the receiver must let the ball bounce before returning it.
- Point Scoring Rules: Points are scored when a player or team wins a rally. The first player or team to reach 4 points is the winner of the game. If the score is tied at 40-40, the game continues until one of the players or teams reaches a two-point lead. Although often the “golden point” rules apply, where the team who gets the next point will win the game.
- Faults: A fault is when the ball does not land within the service box. If the server hits a fault, the opponent gets a point. If the server hits two faults in a row, the opponent wins the game.
- Let Rules: A let is when the ball hits the net and still lands within the service box. In this case, the serve is replayed and no points are awarded.
- Double Hits: A double hit is when a player hits the ball twice in succession. If the opponent notices the double hit, they can call a fault and be awarded a point.
- The Return: After the serve, the ball must be returned before it bounces twice. The ball can be played off the walls, but it must hit the floor before it hits the walls. If the ball hits the net and lands in the service box, it’s a let and the serve is replayed. If the ball hits the net and doesn’t land in the service box, it’s a fault and the point goes to the other team.
- The Rules of the Net: Players are not allowed to touch the net with their paddles, body, or clothing. If the ball hits the net and goes over, it’s still in play. If the ball hits the net and doesn’t go over, it’s a fault.
- Foot Faults: Players are not allowed to touch the service line or step over it when serving. If a player steps on or over the line, it’s a foot fault and the serve is lost.
Strategies for Padel Tennis
Padel tennis is a fast-paced game, so it’s important to have a strategy. Start by focusing on your serve. Make sure to serve into the service box and give your opponent a difficult return.
Next, work on your court positioning. You should move around the court to get into the best position for each shot. This will give you the best chance of winning the rally.
Finally, focus on your return shots. Try to return the ball either low and deep or high and deep, as this will give you more time to get into position for the next shot.
Common Mistakes Made in Padel Tennis
One of the most common mistakes made in padel tennis is not hitting the ball into the service box. Make sure to hit the ball directly into the service box, as any shots that land outside of the service box are considered faults.
Another mistake is not moving around the court. You should always be moving around the court to get into the best position for each shot. This will give you the best chance of winning the rally.
Finally, many players make the mistake of hitting the ball too hard. Padel tennis is a game of finesse, so try to hit the ball with precision and control.
Padel Tennis Tips for Beginners
If you’re a beginner, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Start with a mid-size racket. The size of the racket will depend on your height and playing style.
- Wear comfortable and lightweight clothes. Look for breathable fabrics that will allow you to move freely.
- Focus on your serve. Make sure to hit the ball into the service box and give your opponent a difficult return.
- Move around the court. You should always be moving around the court to get into the best position for each shot.
- Hit the ball with precision and control. Padel tennis is a game of finesse, so try to hit the ball with accuracy and power.
Conclusion
Padel tennis is a fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It’s an exciting and fun game that is easy to learn. With the right knowledge and practice, you can master the rules of padel tennis. In this beginner’s guide, we’ve covered everything you need to know to get started, including padel tennis equipment, court size, scoring, rules, and strategies. Now that you know the basics, you’re ready to hit the court and start playing!
