How to Score a Point in Padel

If you are just starting to play padel or returning to the court after some time away, knowing how to score is essential. The good news is that the padel scoring system is practically the same as in tennis. So, if you already know how it works in that sport, it will be very familiar to you. And if not, here we explain it step by step so that you don't miss a thing!

Basic Padel Scoring System

The basic scoring system in padel follows this sequence: 0, 15, 30, 40, and game. To win a game, a team must score four points and have at least a two-point lead over their opponent. If both teams reach forty points, known as "deuce," they must win two consecutive points to close out the game.

Once you understand this, let's review all the ways in which you can win a point during a match:

1. The Ball Bounces Twice

In padel, there is the second bounce rule. When the ball bounces twice in a row on the opponent's side of the court before they can return it, the point is automatically awarded.

This situation demonstrates good control of rhythm and placement, as it forces the opponent to move or react quickly.

2. The Ball Hits the Net

If a player hits the ball, and it does not clear the net, the point is automatically awarded to the opposing team. The point is also lost if the ball hits the net and, even if it clears it, does not land in the correct area of the opponent's court.

3. Out of Bounds

Hitting the ball outside the boundaries defined by the lines results in the immediate loss of the point. This occurs in these key situations:

• If the shot is too long or too wide, and the ball does not touch the valid area of the opponent's court, the point is considered lost.
• This applies if the ball hits a wall outside the regulation area or if it goes over the walls without first touching the opponent's court.

4. Double Bounce or Fault on Serve

Knowing the faults in padel is very important for understanding the scoring system:

• Each player has two attempts to serve correctly. If they fail both, they lose the point.
• The point is also lost if the ball bounces twice on your own court before being returned.
• If the serving technique is not respected, for example, hitting above the waist or stepping on the line.

5. Interference or Touching the Net

In padel, common faults that cause a team to lose a point include touching the net or net posts. If any player, their racket, or any part of their clothing or body touches the net, net posts, or mesh while the ball is in play, their team loses the point. The only exception is if the contact happens after the point has ended.

Another fault is encroaching on the opponent's court. Players are not allowed to cross the net to hit the ball on the opponent's side. If a player or their racket crosses the line over the net to strike the ball, their team loses the point. However, the racket may cross the net after hitting the ball on their own side, as long as the ball has already crossed to the opponent's side.

Expert insight

These are the most common ways to win a point in padel, and they occur most frequently in both recreational and competitive matches. However, the game can present more complex situations such as unusual rebounds, accidental interference, or questionable plays at the net.

You can always consult the official padel rules for a complete and up-to-date understanding and to gain further knowledge on the subject.

Winning a Game, Set, and Match

We have already seen how points are lost and won in padel. However, it is good to understand how games, sets, and matches are won. Let's look at this item by item:

To Win a Game:

• At least 4 points are needed. For example: 15, 30, 40, the game is won.
• You must have a minimum difference of 2 points over the opposing team. For example, a score of 40 to 15 or 40 to 30.
• If the score reaches 40-40 (deuce), you must win by two consecutive points.

To Win a Set:

• You must win 6 games with a difference of at least two games over the opposing duo. For example, a score of 6 to 4 or 6 to 3.
• If the score reaches 5 to 5, you must win 7 to 5.
• If the score reaches 6 to 6, a tie-break or sudden death point is played to decide the set.

To Win a Match:

• The match is played best of 3 sets.
• The team that wins two sets wins the match.

Now that you know the rules and how to win a point, it's time to grab your padel racket, get on the court, and put it all into practice. Every point counts, and with this solid foundation, you're ready to compete and enjoy yourself!