What are the basic rules of padel?
B · Beginner · Court and scoring · 1 of 6Padel is played two against two on a 20 m by 10 m court enclosed by glass and mesh. Each point starts with an underarm serve. Scoring is as in tennis. After the ball bounces on your side it may hit the walls before you return it, but it must not bounce twice.
How it works
- Players: two pairs.
- Court: 20 m by 10 m, enclosed.
- Serve: underarm, after a bounce.
- Scoring: 15, 30, 40, game.
- Walls: in play after a bounce.
- Bounces: one on the ground.
- Return: may go off your own wall first.
- Match: best of three sets.
The glossary has the court, the glass walls, the metal fence, the doubles, the ball in play and the point.
Tricky cases
Is there singles padel?
The rules are written for pairs only.
Can I hit the ball into my own back wall to return it?
Yes, if it then crosses and bounces on the other side.
The opponents' shot hits my back glass without bouncing. Result?
They lose the point.
Is a smash allowed?
Yes. The rules do not limit shots.
Why the rule exists
The walls keep rallies going, which is why padel is easier to start than tennis.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Court | Enclosed | L Court |
| Serve | Underarm | L R6 |
| Walls | In play | L R12.3 |
From the rule book
International Padel Federation (FIP), Rules of Padel (2026), the court rules and Rules 1, 3, 6, 12 and 14. Checked 15 October 2026. Official document: FIP Rules of Padel 2026.