🏛️Official — International Padel Federation
Loading OpenSourceSports…
Players must wear appropriate sports attire, including athletic shoes with non-marking soles suitable for the court surface. Clothing must not contain offensive imagery or messaging.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the rule is only about visible offensive clothing, forgetting that it also includes accessories like headbands or necklaces that could interfere with play. The confusion arises because they overlook the requirement for non-marking soles on shoes and the fact that the attire must be suitable for the specific court surface, not just any athletic wear.
The use of walls is the defining tactical element of padel: After the ball bounces on the ground on the receiving side, it may rebound off any wall (back glass, side glass, or metallic mesh) and still be played by the receiving pair.; Players may not hit the ball directly into a wall on their own...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that walls are only for decoration in padel matches, forgetting they play a crucial role in gameplay as they dictate where players must hit the ball. The confusion arises because these walls aren't just boundaries; they're integral to creating different shot angles and strategies, which can significantly affect the outcome of points.
In professional and sanctioned tournament play, matches are officiated by a chair umpire who sits in an elevated position at the net post. The chair umpire is responsible for calling the score, ruling on disputed calls, enforcing the rules, and managing player conduct.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the chair umpire's elevated position means they can see everything clearly from above, which leads to them making all calls without error. However, the confusion arises because while visibility is improved, it doesn't negate the need for a thorough understanding of the game and its nuances, or the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
Players change ends at the end of the first, third, and every subsequent odd-numbered game of each set, as well as at the end of each set if the total number of games in that set is odd. During changeovers, players have a maximum of 90 seconds of rest.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that changeovers mean a full minute of rest for each player, which is why they argue; however, the official verdict specifies only 90 seconds per player during these breaks, leading to misunderstandings about what constitutes an actual "rest" period in Padel matches.
The FIP Code of Conduct provides a graduated penalty system for behavioral violations: First offense: Verbal warning from the chair umpire.; Second offense: Point penalty — one point awarded to the opposing pair.; Third offense: Game penalty — one game awarded to the opposing pair.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a let call is only for uncontrollable external factors like balls from other courts or animals on court. They forget that deliberate interference by another player also triggers a let, which can lead to confusion and disputes over whether a foul was truly intentional or just unexpected.
The padel court is a rectangle measuring 20 meters long by 10 meters wide (65.62 ft × 32.81 ft), enclosed on all sides by walls and fencing. The court is divided into two equal halves by a net.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the dimensions are given in feet instead of meters, leading them to question why their preferred court size isn't being used. The confusion arises because the official measurement is provided in metric units, which can be misleading if one isn’t familiar with conversion rates or accustomed to imperial measurements.
The enclosed court design provides inherent safety benefits — balls are contained within the playing area, reducing the risk of balls striking spectators. Access doors must open outward (away from the playing area) and must not protrude into the court when closed.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that access doors can be left open during matches for convenience, thinking they're just like regular doorways. However, the official rule clearly states these doors must always face outward to prevent balls from escaping and hitting spectators, which is why many argue about ensuring compliance with this detail.
If the ball bounces twice on the ground on one side of the court before being returned, the point is awarded to the opposing pair. This is the most common way points end in padel.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a ball bounces twice in one corner of their court before being returned, they automatically win the point. However, the real issue is that it's considered a 'double bounce violation' and points are awarded to the opposing team instead, because the rule specifically states this happens when the ball hits the ground twice on one side of the court.
Padel is played exclusively as a doubles sport — two players per side, for a total of four players on court. There is no official singles format in FIP-sanctioned competition.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that since Padel is called 'International Padel Federation' sanctioned competition, it must be a singles format where players compete one-on-one. But actually, the official ruling clearly states it's exclusively played as a doubles sport with two players per side for a total of four on court, making singles play non-existent in FIP-sanctioned competitions.
All glass panels used in padel court construction must be tempered safety glass (also known as toughened glass), typically 10 mm or 12 mm thick. Tempered glass is designed to shatter into small, granular pieces rather than sharp shards in the even...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the glass thickness is solely for safety, forgetting about durability and cost factors. They overlook how thicker glass can be more expensive and might reduce flexibility in design compared to thinner tempered glass options.
If a player is hindered by an external factor beyond the players' control (such as a ball from another court, an animal on court, or a spectator interference), the chair umpire may call a let and replay the point. Deliberate hindrance by a player results in loss of the point.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a ball from another court lands in their court and hinders them, they can simply call it a let and replay the point without consequence. However, the rule clearly states that deliberate hindrance by a player results in a loss of the point, so calling a let isn't always an option; it depends on whether the interference was accidental or intentional.
A match is the best of three sets. The pair that wins two sets first wins the match.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a match in Padel is decided by who wins two out of three sets first, thinking it's like tennis where you win a set first. But actually, they misunderstand because the International Padel Federation specifies a "best of three" format, meaning the match ends when one team clinches two victories across all sets played, regardless of how many total games are won in those sets.
The server must serve within 25 seconds of the end of the previous point. Between the second and third sets, players may take a break of up to 10 minutes (in FIP-sanctioned events; some tours allow only 5 minutes).
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if they're waiting for their opponent's serve, they can take as long as they want, leading to delays. However, the actual rule states that players must wait no more than 25 seconds after the previous point ends before serving again, and there are specific time limits between sets in FIP-sanctioned matches, which is where the confusion usually arises.
A player touches the net, net posts, or net cable while the ball is in play — loss of point.; A player reaches over the net to strike the ball before it has crossed to their side — loss of point.; A player hits the ball directly into a wall on their own side of the court — loss of point.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a let is only called for external factors like animals or balls from another court, forgetting that deliberate interference by an opponent can also trigger a let. The confusion arises because they overlook the specific mention of "deliberate hindrance" in the rule, thinking it applies only to uncontrollable situations.
Players must adhere to the FIP Code of Conduct at all times. This includes maintaining respect for opponents, officials, and spectators.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the 'Code of Conduct' in Padel is strictly about on-court behavior only, forgetting that it extends to how players interact with opponents, officials, and spectators off the court as well. They misunderstand that respect isn't just for those directly involved in a match but also for everyone associated with the game.
Each pair typically organizes themselves with one player on the drive side (right side, also called the forehand side or "derecha") and one player on the backhand side (left side, also called the "revés"). However, players are free to position the...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the official positioning rules are rigidly enforced with no room for flexibility, thinking players must always be on opposite sides regardless of their playing style or personal preference. However, the actual rule is more flexible, allowing pairs to choose positions based on what works best for them, not just adhering strictly to left and right sides.
One of padel's most spectacular and unique rules is that players may leave the court through the side access doors to retrieve a ball that has gone over the glass walls after bouncing on their side. The ball remains in play as long as it has not bounced on the ground a second time.
Why people argue about this
People often think that leaving the court is only allowed if a ball has bounced twice on their side before going over the walls, but actually, it's permitted as long as the ball hasn't bounced once on their own ground after crossing the glass wall, regardless of how many times it bounces on the opposing side.
The court surface must provide consistent traction and cushioning. Artificial turf courts must be properly maintained with appropriate sand infill levels to prevent excessive sliding or abrupt stops.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that wrist straps are optional safety measures and argue they're unnecessary, forgetting that the official rule mandates their use for player safety, leading to misunderstandings about play interruptions if a strap is missing.
While not currently mandatory under FIP rules, protective sports eyewear is strongly recommended for all players. The small court dimensions and fast-paced nature of padel mean that players are in close proximity and balls can travel at high speeds, particularly during smashes and volleys.
Why people argue about this
People often assume protective eyewear is only for eye protection, but in padel's fast-paced environment where balls travel at high speeds, it also serves as a crucial barrier against potential facial injuries from unexpected shots or collisions, thus making it more than just an optional safety gear.
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis: Points within a game are counted as 15, 30, 40, and game.; When both pairs reach 40 (known as "deuce"), one pair must win two consecutive points to win the game. The first point after deuce is called "advantage" (ventaja). If the pair with advantage w...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that a tiebreak is only for deciding sets when scores are tied at 6-6, forgetting that it can also be used if the score reaches 5-5 in games within a set. This leads to misunderstandings about when and how many times a tiebreak should be played.
Unlike tennis or badminton, the padel racket has no strings. It is a solid, perforated frame. FIP specifications include: The racket shall have a maximum overall length of 45.5 cm (17.91 in), a maximum width of 26 cm (10.24 in), and a maximum thickness of 38 mm (1.50 in).; The hitting surface mus...
— Rule 2, Rule 3
Why people argue about this
People often assume that since padel rackets lack strings like tennis rackets, they must be softer or less powerful. But the official verdict clarifies that these perforated frames are designed for maximum control and power, just as in other racquet sports where stringing is standard. The confusion arises because of a misunderstanding about what constitutes "strings" in racket terminology.
The padel court is a rectangle measuring 20 meters long by 10 meters wide (65.62 ft × 32.81 ft), enclosed on all sides by walls and fencing. The court is divided into two equal halves by a net.
— Rule 1
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the dimensions of 20 meters by 10 meters are for both singles and doubles matches, but actually, these measurements apply specifically to a single player's court space in doubles play, where each player has their own 10-meter section side-by-side with another player.
Padel is played exclusively as a doubles sport — two players per side, for a total of four players on court. There is no official singles format in FIP-sanctioned competition.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that Padel can be played as singles since it's called a "padel" court rather than a doubles court. However, the International Padel Federation clearly states that Padel is exclusively played in a doubles format with two players per side, making this rule a point of contention for many.
The serve must be made underhand. The server must bounce the ball on the ground and strike it at or below waist height. The specific rules are: The server must stand with both feet behind the service line, between the center service line and the side wall.; The ball must be bounced on the ground ...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that using walls is merely a strategic advantage in padel matches, forgetting that section 5 of the rules explicitly states it's actually the defining tactical element. This oversight leads to arguments because players and officials sometimes overlook how crucial wall positioning can be in determining points or even game outcomes.
Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis: Points within a game are counted as 15, 30, 40, and game.; When both pairs reach 40 (known as "deuce"), one pair must win two consecutive points to win the game. The first point after deuce is called "advantage" (ventaja). If the pair with advantage w...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a set is tied 6-6 in Padel, it goes straight into sudden death tiebreakers without considering the margin of victory needed for winning the set. They mistakenly believe they just need to win one more game than their opponent, not maintaining at least a two-game lead throughout the set.
If the ball bounces twice on the ground on one side of the court before being returned, the point is awarded to the opposing pair. This is the most common way points end in padel.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a ball bounces twice on one side of the court before being returned, it means the point is automatically theirs. However, the confusion arises because the rule specifically states that points are awarded only when the ball bounces twice consecutively and on the same side, not just any two bounces in quick succession.
All glass panels used in padel court construction must be tempered safety glass (also known as toughened glass), typically 10 mm or 12 mm thick. Tempered glass is designed to shatter into small, granular pieces rather than sharp shards in the even...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the thickness of 10 mm or 12 mm for tempered glass is solely about durability against ball impacts, but they overlook the primary safety concern: ensuring players don't get seriously injured if a panel does break during play. They mistakenly believe it's just about preventing minor cuts rather than life-threatening injuries like severe lacerations from sharp shards.
The ball does not land in the correct diagonal service box.; The server strikes the ball above waist height.; The server does not bounce the ball before striking it.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a ball hits the ground twice on one side of the court before being returned, it's automatically a fault. But actually, the key is that these two bounces happen consecutively and occur on the same half of the court, leading to an immediate point for the opposing team.
The service line on each side is located 6.95 meters (22.80 ft) from the net, running parallel to it across the full 10-meter width.; The central service line runs from the net to the service line, dividing each half into two service boxes.; All lines are 5 cm (2 in) wide and must contrast with t...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the service line in Padel divides the entire court into two equal halves, rather than just separating each player’s designated box from the net. The confusion arises because they overlook how the central line is positioned perpendicular to the net, effectively creating distinct service boxes for each player.
At the start of each set, each pair decides which player will serve first. The serving order alternates between the four players throughout the set.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the chair umpire's role is limited to simply calling scores, which they see as a minor part of their job. However, the confusion arises because in actuality, the chair umpire has significant authority and responsibility, including enforcing complex rules like serving order and rotation, which can lead to disputes if not correctly interpreted or applied.
A set is won by the first pair to win 6 games, provided they lead by at least 2 games. If the set reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is played.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that if a set goes to 6-6 in Padel, it's decided by a simple coin toss winner, which leads to arguments over who gets to flip the coin. Actually, they're both wrong; a tiebreak is played right away to determine the winner of the 6th game, ensuring a clear and fair outcome for the set.
Padel uses a pressurized rubber ball that is similar in appearance to a tennis ball but has slightly lower pressure and bounce characteristics.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the lower-pressure ball in Padel is meant to make it easier for beginners to hit, thinking its softer texture will soften their shots too. But actually, the reduced bounce characteristics are designed to increase the game's pace and control, making it more strategic rather than forgiving.
The net divides the court into two equal halves and is 10 meters long (the full width of the court).; The net height is 88 cm (34.65 in) at the center and 92 cm (36.22 in) at the posts.; The net posts are positioned outside the court at each side, and the net must be tensioned uniformly across it...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the central service line means it's a doubles court, leading to arguments about which side is right when positioning themselves for shots. Actually, the presence of the service line doesn't change the fact that each half of the court can be used in singles play as well, contrary to what some players might think based on its name alone.
Unlike tennis or badminton, the padel racket has no strings. It is a solid, perforated frame. FIP specifications include: The racket shall have a maximum overall length of 45.5 cm (17.91 in), a maximum width of 26 cm (10.24 in), and a maximum thickness of 38 mm (1.50 in).; The hitting surface mus...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that since padel rackets lack strings like tennis rackets do, they must be softer and less powerful. But in reality, the International Padel Federation's verdict clarifies that these perforated frames are designed for speed and precision, not for providing a cushioned hit - hence their solid construction allows for quicker swings and more control over the ball.
The serve must be made underhand. The server must bounce the ball on the ground and strike it at or below waist height. The specific rules are: The server must stand with both feet behind the service line, between the center service line and the side wall.; The ball must be bounced on the ground ...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the walls are only for blocking shots when they serve, forgetting that hitting off the wall is allowed as long as it doesn't touch another player or go out of bounds. They misunderstand that serving off the wall can be a strategic move to deceive opponents and change their positioning on the court.
The enclosed nature of the padel court is the sport's most distinctive architectural feature: Back walls: Each end of the court has a glass wall 4 meters (13.12 ft) high spanning the full 10-meter width. The back wall is entirely glass (tempered safety glass, typically 10–12 mm thick) to allow sp...
Why people argue about this
People often assume that the walls in padel courts are there purely for safety reasons, which leads them to overlook their crucial role in gameplay. However, the actual purpose of these enclosures is to limit the play area and create strategic challenges, influencing shot placement and strategy deeply within the game.
Players may not touch the net, net posts, or any part of the opponent's court while the ball is in play. Doing so results in loss of the point.
Why people argue about this
People think you can touch the net if it's just a quick mistake, like brushing past it with your racquet. But actually, the rule is strictly enforced to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by touching parts of their opponent’s court or net during play.
Players may hit the ball out of the air (volley) at any time during the rally, except on the return of serve — the receiving team must let the serve bounce before playing it. There is no non-volley zone in padel; players may volley from any position on the court, including directly at the net.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that there's a non-volley zone in padel where players can't volley near the net, which is incorrect. The official rule actually states there’s no such area, so players are free to volley from anywhere on the court, including right at the net, unlike in other sports like volleyball.
Outdoor padel courts are subject to environmental conditions. Play should be suspended during rain (wet surfaces become dangerously slippery), thunderstorms (glass and metallic structures pose lightning risks), and extreme heat.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that they can play through rain as long as it's not pouring down heavily, forgetting about the dangerously slippery conditions that make playing unsafe. The confusion arises because they overlook how even light drizzle or misty showers can turn a hard court into a slick surface where players risk slipping and getting injured.
All padel rackets must be equipped with a wrist strap, and players must wear the strap during play. This is a mandatory safety rule — if a player is found playing without the wrist strap, the chair umpire will stop play and require the player to attach and use it.
Why people argue about this
People often assume that wrist straps are optional safety measures and thus ignore them, thinking they're just an extra piece of equipment. However, the official stance is clear: without a wrist strap, play is immediately halted to ensure player safety, making it mandatory rather than optional.