Match
Padel is a doubles sport played with a partner, meaning four players are needed in total. It is also possible to play singles, in that case two players are needed.
Rules of Padel Match
Scoring: Padel follows the tennis scoring system. Matches are best of 3 sets, with scores of 15, 30, 40, and advantage (deuce). Since 2020, the golden point rule has been applied at 40-40 in professional circuits.
Side Changes: Players switch sides on odd games (1-0, 2-1, etc.).
Player Movement: Any player can hit the ball from any position on the court.
Ball Contact with Walls/Fences: For a ball to be in play, it must bounce on the court before touching any wall or fence, except for the serve. During rallies, the ball can hit the walls and fences. Players may hit it with or without a bounce depending on the situation.
Serving Rules
Correct Serve Execution:
Serves must bounce within the designated cross-court quadrant.
Unlike in tennis, players bounce the ball and must hit it below waist level.
The serve should avoid the side fence after the bounce.
Each serve allows two attempts if the first serve lands out or hits the net.
When the Serve Hits the Net:
Out of Bounds: If it doesn’t bounce in the correct square, it’s a fault.
Valid Bounce:
Single Bounce, No Side Fence: Serve is a let (redo).
Double Bounce, Hits Side Fence: Serve is a let (redo).
Single Bounce, Hits Side Fence: Serve is a fault.
Additional Rules
Double Hits: Players cannot hit the ball twice in one shot.
Safety Rope: Players must wear the racket’s safety strap for safety.
Ball Out of Court: If a player hits the ball out, it’s their point. However, players can attempt a return from outside the court before the second bounce.
Wall/Fence Bounce Return: If a ball bounces, touches the wall, and goes back to the opponent's court, it’s the hitter’s point. Advanced players may try to "save" the point by hitting it back over the net.
Net Contact: If any player touches the net with their racket, clothes, or body, their opponent wins the point.
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