Padel Smarts

Padel guide

Who should you play to in padel?

Prefer the opponent who is further from the net or more out of position, not the closer, ready volleyer.

When the two opponents are in different positions, they are not equally difficult targets. The player closer to the net is usually better prepared to volley, while the deeper or more stretched player has less attacking control.

That means your target choice should respond to the opponents' geometry rather than simply hitting to your favourite side.

Who should you play to?. First teaching moment.

What to do

Look for the player who is further from the net, recovering, moving or otherwise less balanced. Playing toward that player can keep your pair in control and force the opponents to defend from a weaker shape.

Avoid feeding the opponent who is already close to the net and waiting comfortably for the ball unless there is a specific reason to do so.

Who should you play to?. Second teaching moment.

Why it works

This is a simple example of reading the court before selecting the shot. The best target changes as the players move.

Ask one quick question before you hit: which opponent is in the weaker position right now?

Watch the full example →

Training ideas from Padel Smarts tutorials, not personal coaching.