Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in Ireland and across Europe. Whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time or brushing up on the basics, understanding the rules is key to enjoying the game. At LovePadel.ie, we want to make padel simple, fun, and accessible for everyone. Here are the Top 15 Rules you need to know before stepping onto the court:
1. Scoring System
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis: 15, 30, 40, game. A set is won when a pair reaches six games with at least a two-game lead. If the score reaches 6–6, a tie-break is played. Matches are usually best of three sets.
2. Serving Rules
The serve must be underhand, struck at or below waist height. The server must bounce the ball behind the service line before hitting it diagonally into the opponent’s service box. Each player gets two attempts—if both are faults, the point is lost.
3. Receiving the Serve
The serve must bounce once in the receiver’s service box before being returned. The receiver is not allowed to volley the serve.
4. The Ball in Play
Once the rally starts, the ball can bounce off the walls (back or side) and still be in play. The ball must always be returned before bouncing twice. Lines are considered “in.”
5. When the Ball Hits the Glass
If the ball bounces in the court and then hits the glass wall, it remains in play. Players can return the ball after it comes off the glass. However, if the ball hits the glass directly without first bouncing in the opponent’s court, the point is lost.
6. When the Ball Hits the Fence
If the ball bounces in the opponent’s court and then hits the metal fence, it is still valid. But if you hit the ball directly into the fence on the other side without it bouncing in the court first, you lose the point.
7. Losing a Point
You lose a point if:
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The ball bounces twice before you hit it.
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You hit the ball into your own net, wall, or fence before crossing.
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You hit the ball directly outside the court (without bouncing in first).
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You or your racket touches the net.
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You cross into your opponent’s side of the court.
8. Correct Return
A return is valid if the ball first bounces inside the opponent’s court—even if it later hits their walls or fence. You can also hit the ball off your own walls before it crosses the net, as long as it lands in.
9. Side Changes
Players switch sides after the 1st, 3rd, and every odd game of the set. During a tie-break, sides change every six points.
10. Out-of-Court Play
Some courts allow players to exit through the side doors to retrieve and return the ball. This is only permitted if the court meets official safety standards.
11. Time Rules
Padel is designed to keep moving. Players have:
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20 seconds between points
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90 seconds on side changes
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120 seconds between sets Delays beyond these limits may result in penalties.
12. Touching the Net
Players are not allowed to touch the net, posts, or opponent’s side of the court while the ball is in play. Doing so means losing the point.
13. Double Hits
A ball must be struck cleanly. If a player hits the ball twice in the same swing or both teammates hit the ball consecutively, the point is lost. However, if two players swing at once and only one racket makes contact, the point continues.
14. Serving Order
Partners must decide who serves first at the start of each set, and the order cannot change until the set ends. The receiving pair also decides who receives first and must stick to that order for the set.
15. Conduct & Fair Play
Respect and sportsmanship are at the heart of padel. Players must avoid racket abuse, ball abuse, offensive language, or unsportsmanlike behavior. Penalties escalate from a warning to point loss, and in serious cases, disqualification.
Padel is easy to learn, social, and incredibly fun to play. By following these 15 rules, you’ll be ready to hit the court with confidence. At LovePadel.ie, we’re here to support your journey—whether it’s with the latest rackets, balls, or accessories, we’ve got everything you need to get started and improve your game.
Link to the official regulations from the International Padel Federation
Ready to put these rules into practice? Grab your gear from LovePadel.ie and book your next game!
