On a padel court, certain strategies emerge almost imperceptibly. After a few games, a pattern can develop: one player hits almost every ball while their partner watches the rally unfold a few meters away. This well-known situation has a name in padel jargon:  the “fridge” A tactic that is as effective as it is frustrating… and sometimes controversial.

When one player monopolizes all the exchanges

The principle is simple:  direct almost all the balls towards a single player , usually the one considered the weaker of the pair. As a result: this player makes a series of defenses, returns and runs, while his partner remains largely a spectator.

The strategic idea is clear: avoid the most dangerous player and exploit the supposedly more accessible target. With repeated use, the pressure builds and mistakes often begin to appear.

But the situation can become quite paradoxical. The one who receives all the balls is often immersed in the action, focused on the exchanges, sometimes even delighted to be so involved… while his partner, kept out of the game, goes through the match almost without intervening.

How to get out of a “freeze” in padel?

A tactic that is sometimes unintentional.

In some cases, this targeting isn't even entirely conscious. Players naturally tend to play towards  the “safest” option  : an opponent whose moves are more predictable or less aggressive.

The result remains the same: one player is constantly under pressure, the other sees the game slipping through his fingers… until an unexpected ball comes at him without preparation.

How to get out of the fridge?

Fortunately, there are some adjustments to break this pattern.

 1. Identify the situation 
If, after several games, the majority of balls are going to the same player, it's probably not a coincidence. Recognizing the tactic is already a first step towards adapting to it.

 2. Change the game directions 
The targeted player may attempt more  shots along the line This variation often forces the opponent to engage in the exchange and gradually reintegrates the previously forgotten partner.

 3. Intervene more at the net 
The “forgotten” player can also  to get closer to the center or intercept some balls Even if it requires coordination and anticipation. Simply disrupting the opponent's routine can be enough to break their momentum.

A question of the spirit of the game

In competition, the question doesn't really arise. The goal is to win and  The refrigerator is fully part of the tactical arsenal including at the highest level. Some professional pairs regularly use it to target the player deemed the least dangerous.

For example, we can observe that  Fede Chingotto  often touches more balls than his partner  Ale Galán  when they evolve together. Conversely, some associations, such as the one formed by  Arturo Coello  et  Agustín Tapia  rely precisely on two players capable of constantly influencing the exchange.

However, in a friendly match, systematically avoiding the best player can leave a different impression. Constantly avoiding them might help you win, but it also prevents you from truly competing against them.

But it is often  We progress the most when facing opponents stronger than ourselves. .

Ultimately, the fridge remains a tactical weapon like any other. Effective, sometimes frustrating, and always revealing of a strategic choice: playing to win at all costs… or playing to improve and enjoy the match.

Maceo ZERHAT

Maceo Zerhat discovered padel in 2020 in Savigny-sur-Clairis, Burgundy. He contributed to the club's expansion by bringing his energy and curiosity. Padel Magazinehe transmits his Padel"mania" by skillfully bouncing on all the latest news about your favorite sport!

On the same subject

Tags