What is Padel?
Padel is an energising racket sport, which has taken the world by storm. It is the fastest growing sport in the world, and once you have played it, you will know why. Nicknamed "Tennis with walls" & "Squash in the sun". Padel combines the best elements of Tennis and Squash and is suitable for all ages.
Padel is a doubles sport in an enclosed court, which is roughly 1/3rd, the size of a tennis court (20m x 10m). The surrounding walls are an integral part of the game, allowing players to play off it, resulting in longer and more exciting rallies. The scoring system is the same as tennis.
Padel is an addictive sport that appeals to a wide population. Individuals across all ages can play it. The smaller court makes it a social game improving communication and team bonding.
The short stringless Padel rackets are easier to control as it is much closer to the body. Made out of carbon fibre or fibreglass, the strings are replaced with a foam or rubber with holes for an improved aerodynamic performance. The balls used are similar to those in tennis, however, slightly smaller and less bouncy.
Why try Padel?
- It is extremely enjoyable to play and entertaining to watch.
- Better utilisation of space than other racket sports.
- The sport has proven to be revolutionary around the world. The smaller court makes it a more social game.
- Is very popular within all spectrums; from a recreational user to a professional.
- Rallies last around 60-70% longer than Tennis due to the use of surrounding walls and the smaller courts.
- The small racket is much easier to control than the longer stringed Tennis rackets.
- It’s a great workout.
- A game for everyone - Padel can be enjoyed by players of different age groups and experience.
- Padel eliminates the wide gap between male and female players, making it a socially inclusive sport.
What are the rules of the game?
The game begins with a serve from one quadrant, diagonally across the net to the other quadrant. After the ball has been served, the ball is in play and can be played by either of the players. There are two serve attempts allowed and one net let. The ball has to bounce in the opposite diagonal quadrant. If it does not it is a fault.
The points scoring is the same as in Tennis, 15, 30, 40, deuce and advantage.
A set is won when a team gets to 6 games, with a difference of 2 games. If a set ends 6 all, then there is a 7 point tie break.
The server have to stand behind the service line. The server’s partner can stand anywhere on their side of the net.
The serve must be played underhand, off a bounce and below waist height. Players can hit the ball off the volley, off the bounce and over, off the wall and over or play the ball back into the glass and over. The ball can only bounce once. A direct hit into any of the glass walls surrounding the court is a foul and a point to the opposing team.
Padel Rackets
