Golden Collection of Tips: Fight for the Net, Not the Point

Although the unpredictability of the rallies and sudden comebacks make padel exciting and gripping, you cannot rely on luck. Your task is to increase the statistical probability of winning the rally by adopting the correct tactical mindset.

 

Why is the Net So Important?

 

Most points in padel are statistically won precisely at the net. It's easier to attack from this position: you see the opponent's entire court, you can force them into the corners with short volleys, play into the mesh, execute drop shots, or punish slow, high balls with a powerful smash. In short, you can apply maximum pressure, forcing the opponent to make mistakes.

Sanyo Gutiérrez attacks from the net

That is why, to win matches, you must win the net.

Look at how the best pairings play, for example, Arturo Coello and Agustín Tapia: their ability to instantly reclaim the attacking position is unprecedented. Even on deep lobs, they attack the ball from the baseline and immediately return to the net.

Many beginner players try to win the point in every situation. For instance, when deep in defense, if they get a comfortable ball, they aim to attack—hitting powerfully, deep, and at extreme angles. Unfortunately, this approach more often leads to lost points.

Therefore, one of the most important tactical axioms in padel is:

When defending, don't aim to win the point—aim to win the net.

Your task is to wait for the right moment to transition into attack and develop the rally from the dominant position.

Winning the net is the key to winning the point

 

How to Win the Net?

 

In the vast majority of cases, the most reliable way is a quality lob (globo in Spanish) followed by a quick rush to the net.

There are alternative methods, such as moving forward with low shots (chiquitas) to the opponent's feet, but this tactic requires high technical skill and consistency. Therefore, beginners should focus on the lob.

An ideal lob (globo) should be:

• Optimal in height: low enough not to give the opponent too much time to retrieve from the back wall, but unreachable for a smash from the net.

• As close as possible to the back wall in depth.

• Cut, which kills the excessive bounce, depriving the opponent of the opportunity to counterattack comfortably.

• To the receiver's backhand—this will maximally complicate the opponent's return.

 

Summary

 

Your primary game objective is to win the net to win the rally. When on the defensive, switch your mindset from "win the point" to "win the net." Wait for the right moment and use a quality lob to transition from defense to a dominant attack.