PADEL: The Basics to Get Started

Your new favorite sport – here comes Padel!

Padel is one of the fastest-growing racket sports worldwide and is currently taking courts across the globe by storm. The sport combines the simplicity of tennis with the dynamic action of squash – and that’s exactly what makes Padel so popular. The game is quick to learn, instantly accessible, and delivers exciting rallies that inspire beginners and advanced players alike. At OLIVER-SPORT, we share our expertise so you can discover Padel with ease – Feel the difference in your next match.

What is Padel?

Padel (often referred to as Padel tennis) is a modern racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Padel is usually played in doubles – making it the perfect social sport where teamwork, communication, and tactics take center stage.

Where does Padel tennis come from?

Padel was invented in the 1960s in Mexico and spread particularly strongly through Spain across Europe. Today, Padel is one of the major racket sports and continues to grow rapidly – the perfect time to get started and learn the basics.

Expert insight: Padel is becoming so popular because it promotes team spirit, has a very steep learning curve, and allows you to experience real success on court after a short time.

How do you play Padel?

The key element in Padel is the Padel court: a playing field measuring exactly 10 x 20 m, surrounded by glass and mesh walls. These walls are not just boundaries – they are an active part of the game and make Padel so dynamic.

• Active use of the walls: After the ball has bounced once on your own side, it may touch the glass or mesh wall before you return it. This is allowed – and tactically extremely exciting.
• Tactical effect: Using the walls extends rallies. As a result, Padel relies more on tactics, positioning, and finesse rather than pure power – perfect if you want to improve quickly.
• Most important wall rule: You may not let the ball hit the wall directly on the opponent’s side before it has bounced on the ground.

Padel tennis: What do I need?

Of course, you need a Padel racket. At OLIVER, we are specialists in racket sports – developing rackets that give you confidence, control, and power, whether you’re just starting out or already playing tournaments.

What shoes do I need for Padel tennis?

You need Padel shoes that provide sufficient support and a sole suitable for the court surface. This maximizes grip, stability, and speed – three factors that decide many points in Padel.

What are the rules in Padel?

The Padel rules are easy to understand and ensure a fast-paced game. That’s exactly what makes getting started so enjoyable – you quickly play “real” rallies and learn the finer details step by step.

• How do you score points in Padel? A team wins a point when the opposing team makes a mistake and fails to end the rally according to the rules. Examples: The ball bounces twice, the ball is hit directly into the mesh, or a service fault occurs.
• How is scoring done? Scoring is the same as in tennis: 1 point: 15, two points: 30, three points: 40 – then the team wins the game. Matches usually consist of several sets (often best-of-3). The first team to win two sets wins the match.
• The Padel serve: The serve must be played below hip height and after a bounce on your own side. The ball must be hit diagonally into the opposite service box.

You can read more details in the OLIVER blog article about the rules of the game.

Why is Padel so popular?

Padel is not only action-packed but also great for your health: the sport is easy on the joints and improves endurance, mobility, and coordination. At the same time, playing doubles automatically trains your reaction skills and tactical understanding.

You’ll see quick progress because the technique is very intuitive, making Padel tennis a highly motivating sport. Start now with the right Padel racket from OLIVER and experience what’s possible!