How to Play Padel
Complete beginner's guide
Rules & Regulations (Official)
Understanding official rules and regulations is essential for competitive play and proper court etiquette. This chapter covers FIP (Fédération Internationale de Padel) rules, tournament regulations, and the code of conduct that governs padel.
Overview of FIP/Local Federation Rules
The Fédération Internationale de Padel (FIP) is the international governing body for padel. FIP establishes official rules, regulations, and standards that are followed worldwide, with local federations adapting these rules for regional play.
| Rule | Specification | Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Court Dimensions | 20m x 10m | FIP Official Rules | Standard international dimensions |
| Net Height | 0.88m center, 0.92m posts | FIP Official Rules | Lower than tennis |
| Racket Specifications | Max 45.5cm length, 26cm width | FIP Official Rules | Solid racket with holes |
| Ball Specifications | 6.35-6.67cm diameter | FIP Official Rules | Lower pressure than tennis |
| Scoring System | Same as tennis | FIP Official Rules | Games, sets, matches |
FIP Rule Categories
FIP rules cover these main categories:
- Court Specifications: Dimensions, surface, and equipment standards
- Equipment Rules: Racket, ball, and accessory specifications
- Game Rules: Scoring, serving, and play regulations
- Conduct Rules: Player behavior and sportsmanship standards
- Tournament Rules: Competition format and procedures
Local Federation Adaptations
Local federations may adapt FIP rules for:
- Regional Conditions: Climate and facility considerations
- Skill Levels: Different rules for different skill levels
- Age Groups: Modified rules for junior and senior players
- Facility Constraints: Adaptations for available facilities
- Cultural Factors: Local customs and preferences
Rule Updates and Changes
FIP regularly updates rules to:
- Improve Safety: Enhance player safety and equipment standards
- Maintain Fairness: Ensure fair and competitive play
- Adapt to Technology: Incorporate new equipment and technology
- Simplify Rules: Make rules clearer and easier to understand
- Promote Growth: Encourage participation and development
Court Dimensions and Setup Standards
Official court setup standards ensure consistent playing conditions and safety. These standards cover all aspects of court construction, from surface materials to safety features.
| Court Element | Requirement | Standard | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Court Surface | Artificial grass, concrete, or synthetic | FIP Approved | Regular cleaning and maintenance |
| Wall Construction | 3m height minimum | FIP Approved | Structural integrity checks |
| Net System | Regulation height and tension | FIP Approved | Regular tension checks |
| Lighting | Adequate illumination for play | FIP Approved | Regular bulb replacement |
| Safety Features | Non-slip surfaces, proper drainage | FIP Approved | Regular safety inspections |
Surface Requirements
Official surface requirements include:
- Material Standards: Approved surface materials and construction
- Performance Standards: Ball bounce and player traction requirements
- Safety Standards: Non-slip surfaces and injury prevention
- Durability Standards: Longevity and wear resistance
- Maintenance Standards: Regular maintenance and care requirements
Wall Construction Standards
Wall construction must meet these standards:
- Height Requirements: Minimum 3-meter height
- Material Standards: Approved construction materials
- Safety Standards: Smooth surfaces and rounded edges
- Structural Standards: Proper foundation and stability
- Maintenance Standards: Regular inspection and repair
Net System Standards
Net systems must comply with:
- Height Standards: 0.88m center, 0.92m posts
- Tension Standards: Proper net tension and stability
- Material Standards: Approved net materials and construction
- Installation Standards: Proper installation and anchoring
- Maintenance Standards: Regular tension and condition checks
Tournament Rules and Tie-break Systems
Tournament rules govern competitive play and ensure fair competition. These rules cover match format, scoring systems, and procedures for handling various game situations.
| Rule | Specification | Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Match Format | Best of 3 sets | FIP Tournament Rules | Some tournaments use best of 1 |
| Tie-Break | First to 7 points, win by 2 | FIP Tournament Rules | At 6-6 in any set |
| Warm-Up Time | 5 minutes maximum | FIP Tournament Rules | Before match begins |
| Medical Timeouts | 3 minutes maximum | FIP Tournament Rules | For injury or medical issues |
| Code Violations | Warning, point penalty, game penalty | FIP Tournament Rules | Progressive penalty system |
Match Format Rules
Tournament match formats include:
- Standard Format: Best of 3 sets for most tournaments
- Short Format: Best of 1 set for some tournaments
- Time Limits: Maximum match duration limits
- Warm-Up Rules: 5-minute maximum warm-up time
- Break Rules: Rest periods between sets and games
Tie-Break Procedures
Tie-break procedures include:
- Trigger: Tie-break at 6-6 in any set
- Format: First to 7 points, win by 2
- Serving: Alternate serving every 2 points
- Change of Ends: Change ends every 6 points
- Final Set: Special rules for final set tie-breaks
Tournament Procedures
Tournament procedures cover:
- Registration: Player registration and eligibility
- Draw Procedures: Tournament draw and seeding
- Schedule Management: Match scheduling and timing
- Officiating: Referee and line judge procedures
- Dispute Resolution: Handling disputes and appeals
Conduct and Code of Ethics
The code of conduct and ethics governs player behavior and ensures the integrity of the sport. These principles promote fair play, respect, and sportsmanship at all levels.
| Principle | Description | Importance | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Respect | Respect opponents, officials, and facilities | High | Shake hands, thank officials |
| Fair Play | Play within the rules and spirit of the game | High | Call own faults, accept decisions |
| Sportsmanship | Display good sportsmanship at all times | High | Congratulate opponents, control emotions |
| Integrity | Maintain honesty and integrity in all actions | High | Accurate scoring, honest line calls |
| Courtesy | Be courteous to all participants | Medium | Polite communication, considerate behavior |
Sportsmanship Standards
Sportsmanship standards include:
- Respect for Opponents: Treat opponents with respect and courtesy
- Respect for Officials: Accept referee decisions gracefully
- Respect for Facilities: Care for courts and equipment
- Fair Play: Play within the rules and spirit of the game
- Graceful Winning/Losing: Win and lose with dignity
Behavioral Expectations
Behavioral expectations include:
- Emotional Control: Control emotions and reactions
- Language Standards: Use appropriate language
- Dress Code: Follow appropriate dress standards
- Punctuality: Arrive on time for matches
- Cooperation: Cooperate with officials and organizers
Violation Consequences
Conduct violations may result in:
- Warnings: Verbal warnings for minor violations
- Point Penalties: Loss of points for repeated violations
- Game Penalties: Loss of games for serious violations
- Match Penalties: Loss of matches for severe violations
- Tournament Suspension: Suspension from tournaments
Officiating and Dispute Resolution
Understanding officiating procedures and dispute resolution helps players navigate competitive situations and maintain fair play standards.
Referee Responsibilities
Referees are responsible for:
- Rule Enforcement: Enforcing all rules and regulations
- Score Keeping: Maintaining accurate score
- Line Calls: Making line calls when needed
- Conduct Monitoring: Monitoring player conduct
- Dispute Resolution: Resolving disputes and conflicts
Player Responsibilities
Players are responsible for:
- Rule Knowledge: Knowing and following all rules
- Self-Officiating: Making honest line calls
- Conduct: Maintaining appropriate conduct
- Cooperation: Cooperating with officials
- Respect: Respecting opponents and officials
Dispute Resolution Process
The dispute resolution process includes:
- Initial Discussion: Discuss issues with opponent
- Referee Consultation: Consult with referee if needed
- Tournament Director: Escalate to tournament director
- Formal Appeal: Submit formal appeal if necessary
- Final Decision: Accept final decision gracefully
Equipment Certification and Standards
Official equipment must meet FIP certification standards to ensure safety, performance, and fair play in competitive situations.
Racket Certification
Racket certification ensures:
- Size Compliance: Meets official size requirements
- Material Standards: Uses approved materials
- Safety Standards: Meets safety requirements
- Performance Standards: Consistent performance characteristics
- Durability Standards: Meets durability requirements
Ball Certification
Ball certification ensures:
- Size Compliance: Meets official size requirements
- Pressure Standards: Meets pressure specifications
- Bounce Standards: Consistent bounce characteristics
- Durability Standards: Meets durability requirements
- Visibility Standards: Meets visibility requirements
Court Equipment Certification
Court equipment certification ensures:
- Net Standards: Meets net specifications
- Surface Standards: Meets surface requirements
- Safety Standards: Meets safety requirements
- Performance Standards: Consistent playing conditions
- Maintenance Standards: Meets maintenance requirements