Padel isn't just about technique or strength: without strategy, it's difficult to hope to dominate. Here are the most common mistakes you absolutely must avoid to take your game to the next level.

1. Neglecting glass defense

Many amateur players dread hitting the balls off the glass due to lack of practice.

 The right reflex:  Be patient, let the ball bounce, read its trajectory and prepare your shot calmly. A good defender on the glass is a formidable opponent.

2. Rushing to complete stitches

Forcing premature attacks is one of the biggest mistakes. Trying to conclude too quickly often leads to mistakes.

 To correct :  Build the exchange with patience, wait for a real opportunity and take care in your decision-making.

3. Playing alone and ignoring your partner

Even with two players, padel is a team sport. Playing on your own is almost always fatal.

 The secret :  Plan ahead together, talk, encourage each other, organize your movements. A united pair is much more dangerous.

4. Forgetting to vary your shots

Always sending the same ball gives comfort to the opponent, and he will eventually find the solution.

 The smart tip:  Alternate balls with spin, slow, fast... Break their rhythm before they break yours.

5. Misusing the lob

The lob is an essential weapon, but it must be mastered. If it's too short or misdirected, it will backfire.

 To do well:  On defense, a good lob can get you back to the net. On offense, it can reverse the pressure if your duo is being pushed around.

6. Relying solely on power

Hitting with full power without placement or thought is to offer easy counter shots to your opponents.

 The real solution:  Place your shots before trying to hit hard. Padel is a sport of positioning as much as power.

7. Bad positioning on the field

The "no man's land" between the bottom and the net is a dangerous area. To linger there is to expose yourself to all sorts of attacks.

 To remember :  On defense, stay in the backcourt to use the glass. On offense, advance close to the net to control the point.

8. Rushing after your shift

Too often, we want to run up to the net without thinking about positioning ourselves correctly.

 The trick:  Move forward quickly but in a controlled manner. Be ready for the next volley, not to sprint unnecessarily, otherwise you will definitely get lobbed or have poor ball control.

Benjamin Dupouy

I discovered padel directly during a tournament, and frankly, I didn't really like it at first. But the second time, it was love at first sight, and since then, I haven't missed a single match. I'm even ready to stay up until 3am to watch a final of Premier Padel !

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