Padel Tactics: A Guide to Winning the Doubles Game

In padel, there is something just as important as technique, and often even more decisive: the right padel tactics. Because padel is a game of positioning and intelligence played 2v2; the team that wins is not the one that hits hardest, but the one that stands in the right place at the right time and plays in harmony with its partner. In this guide we explain the basic tactics that win the doubles game, in a way simple enough for even beginners to apply in their very first match.

The Golden Rule: Control the Net

If there is a single sentence you must memorise in padel, it is this: the team that controls the net controls the point. The team playing close to the net can bring the ball down from above and into the opponents' side; the team stuck at the back line, meanwhile, is constantly on defence, forced to return the ball from the ground and upwards.

• Move up to the net together: When you get the chance, approach the net side by side with your partner. Going up alone leaves a gap behind you.
• Trap the opponent at the back: Once you take the net, your goal is to pin the opponent against the back wall and keep them on defence.
• Do not rush: Move up to the net after a serve or a solid shot, when you are balanced; not while running.

Push the Opponent Off the Net with a Lob

So what do you do if the opponent is holding the net? This is where the lob (a high, rising ball) comes in. A good lob sails over the opponent at the net and forces them to run back to the baseline.

• Switch positions: When your lob works, use the gap that opens up for you and your partner to move up to the net and seize the initiative.
• Depth matters: Try to drop the lob over the opponent's head and close to the back glass; a short lob gives the opponent a chance to smash.
• Break the pressure: When you are in trouble, the lob is the safest way out, one that both buys time and reverses the position.

Turn the Glass into Your Weapon

The walls that make padel unique are also a powerful tactical tool.

• Squeeze the opponent against the glass: Play the ball close to the opponent's back or side glass; a ball coming off the glass is hard to control and often produces a faulty return.
• Use your own glass: Let a fast ball coming at you go without panicking; after it comes off the back glass you can hit it far more comfortably.
• Target the corners: Balls sent into the corner where two glass panes meet are the hardest for the opponent to read.

Play to the Weak Spot

In padel, points are usually won not by the hardest shot but by the smartest choice of direction.

• Load onto the weaker player: By playing constantly to the less experienced player on the opposing team, you make it easier for them to make a mistake.
• Play to the backhand side: Most players' backhand is weaker than their forehand; direct the balls to that side.
• Cross-court is safe, down-the-line is risky: Cross-court shots are longer and safer; down-the-line (along the wall) shots should only be attempted from a net position.

Become One Body with Your Partner

Padel is not an individual sport but a team game; the two players must move as a single body.

• Stay side by side: When one of you is at the net, the other should not stay at the back; both of you should move forward and back together, on the same line.
• Say "Mine!": On balls that come down the middle and whose owner is unclear, communicate out loud; hesitation costs points.
• Cover the gaps together: Position yourself so that you cover the gap that opens up when your partner is pulled to one side.

The Order of Priorities for Beginners

Do not try to apply all these tactics at once. If you are just starting out, progress in this order:

1. Learn positioning first: Make standing side by side with your partner and moving together a habit.
2. Aim for the net: Whenever you get the chance, try to move up to the net safely.
3. Add the lob: When you come under pressure, take a breath with a high lob instead of panicking.
4. Play patiently: Do not try to win every ball; keep the ball in play and let the opponent make the mistake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the net so important in padel? Because the team at the net can attack by playing the ball from above and downwards, while the team at the back stays constantly on defence. The team that controls the net wins the large majority of rallies.

What is a lob for? A lob is a high ball that sails over an opponent holding the net. It forces the opponent to run back to the baseline and, in the meantime, gives you and your partner the chance to move up to the net and seize the position.

How do I coordinate with my partner? The most important things are moving side by side and talking. On balls coming down the middle, make it clear who will hit by saying "mine", cover the gaps each of you opens, and move forward and back at the same time.

Which tactic should a beginner start with? At its simplest: playing patiently to keep the ball in play, and standing side by side with your partner. Focusing on error-free play rather than hard shots is the approach that wins beginners the most points.

Reading about tactics is a start, but real improvement comes on court, playing against different opponents. With Maç Var Mı? you can find open padel matches suited to your level in İzmir, book a suitable court and try out the tactics you have learned right away. Whether it is Bornova, Karşıyaka or Bostanlı; join the matches near you, find your partner and enjoy the doubles game. Set up your first match today and start controlling the net.