That's a very interesting question, right? Are we forced to come to filet when we play padel ? Let us try to answer this question.

When we look at the high-level players posted in front of our screen, everything looks simple. Incredible defense and above all, ultra-biting attacks, breathtaking volleys, and smashes to recover in the neighbor's living room. It seems clear to all that net play defines the very essence of padel no ? Well think again.

In the books, and among professionals in the sport, it is said that the people who “take” the net, are in an attacking position, lead the game and control the point. This is true, but from a certain level. Players who touch the ball well, have good technique or have experience in other racket sports will find themselves comfortable in this position at the net. But for others, it's like going on a crusade; we do not know what it will give and especially if we are not going to leave your skin there.

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Our advice

If you are a beginner player, take the time to familiarize yourself with the pala, the dimensions of the field, the proximity of the windows, the game for two, and especially with rebounds. It takes time and requires hours of practice.

So focus on the defense, on the appreciation of the ball, on the adjustment of your position, on the impacts with the ball, on the game with both the back and side windows, on the attack possibilities from the bottom of the track, and above all, above all, on precision and control balls that you are going to play.

Being precise, just in your choices, will allow you to spend long moments on the track in a warm atmosphere, to know new partners and to increase your level until the moment when you “need” to come to the net to discover a new world and put an end to these endless exchanges.

Are you an intermediate player and you don´t dare go up to the net too much? Nothing serious, the time has not yet come for you. What to do ? Work on your defense and hamper your opponents so that they can never attack volleys properly. Lobs, balls in the feet, surprise shots at the grid or long line, intermittent high balls and low volleys, you will become a master in the field. It will be difficult to gain a point as long as you control the speed of the ball. You may not be the most desirable partner, but you are comfortable in your trainers and on the track.

Staying often at the bottom of the track when you are starting out guarantees a faster learning of the “basics” of the padel. For intermediate level players, this gives reassurance to offer a “different” game. You will have plenty of time thereafter to polish your game forward and learn to put your opponents under pressure!

Julien Bondia

Julien Bondia is a teacher of padel in Tenerife (Spain). Columnist and advisor, he helps you play better through his tutorials and tactical/technical articles padel.

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