Discover the Official Rules of Padel Tennis
Master the Game with Confidence
Explore the essential rules of Padel Tennis to elevate your game and enjoy the sport to its fullest. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, understanding these guidelines is crucial for a seamless playing experience.
Essential Padel Tennis Rules
Understanding Court Dimensions and Equipment
Court Specifications:
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- 20 metres long x 10 metres wide
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Layout:
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Divided by a net (same height as tennis)
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Fully enclosed by glass and metal mesh walls
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Walls:
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Glass walls are in play and form a core tactical element
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Surface:
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Artificial turf with sand infill
The enclosed design allows the ball to rebound off walls after the bounce, extending rallies and increasing engagement
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Equipment Overview
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Padel Racket:
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Solid (no strings), perforated surface
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Short handle with wrist strap (mandatory for safety)
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Ball:
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Similar to a tennis ball but with lower internal pressure
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Footwear:
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Non-marking sports shoes recommended for grip and injury prevention
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Match Format & Scoring
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis:
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Points: 15 – 30 – 40 – Game
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Matches are typically played as best of 3 sets
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A set is won by the first team to reach 6 games with a 2-game margin
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Tie-breaks are commonly played at 6–6 (venue dependent)
All games are played in doubles (2 vs 2)
Getting the game Started
Service Rules
The serve is underarm and must follow these compliance standards:
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The ball must be struck below waist height
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At least one foot must remain on the ground
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The serve must bounce in the opponent’s service box
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The ball must clear the net and not hit the fence on the fly
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The serve is always played diagonally
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Players are allowed one second serve if the first is a fault
If the serve hits the net and lands correctly in the service box, it is replayed (let)
Main Rules
Ball In Play – Key Rules
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The ball must bounce once on the court before hitting any wall
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After the bounce, the ball may hit the glass walls and remain in play
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If the ball hits the fence after bouncing, it is out
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Volleys are permitted, except when returning the serve
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The ball is out if:
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It bounces twice
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It hits the fence before bouncing
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It exits the court area (unless official out-of-court rules apply)
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The boring but important bit
Safety & Conduct
To ensure a premium customer experience and risk mitigation:
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Wrist straps must be worn at all times
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No abusive or dangerous play
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Respect court time and bookings
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Follow venue-specific health & safety guidance
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Children must be supervised in line with venue policy
Padel Tennis Rules & FAQs
Understanding the rules of padel tennis is crucial for an enjoyable game. Here are some common questions and answers to help you get started.
What is the scoring system in padel?
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis, with games, sets, and matches. A match is best of three sets, and a set is won by the first team to reach six games with a two-game lead.
Can I play padel with a tennis racket?
No, padel requires a specific padel racket, which is solid and perforated, unlike a tennis racket. Using the correct equipment ensures better control and safety during play.
What are the basic rules of padel?
Padel is played in doubles on an enclosed court. The ball must bounce on the ground before hitting the walls, and serves must be underhand. The game encourages strategic play and teamwork.
How do I reserve a court at Xtreme360 Padel?
To reserve a court, visit our booking page, select your preferred time slot, and complete the reservation process. Members enjoy priority booking privileges.