The short version. A soft, low, dipping ball to the net players’ feet. They have to volley it upwards, which gives you and your partner time to come in. It is the lob’s quieter cousin, and just as useful.
Why it works
Net players love balls at chest height. They hate balls at their shoelaces. A chiquita that dips just after crossing the net forces an upward volley, which is slow and gives you time to move forward. If you are the pair at the back and don’t want to lob, the chiquita is your other way in.
How to hit it
- Slow and low, just over the net. Think “drop it into their shoes”.
- Slight slice or a gentle roll: slice keeps it low after the bounce; a little topspin makes it dip.
- Aim between the opponents or at the weaker volleyer’s feet.
- Move forward straight away. The chiquita is a way of approaching the net, not a winner.
When to use it
- When both opponents are close to the net and you are mid-court, not at the back glass.
- When the ball comes to you low, so lobbing is awkward.
- To mix it up with your lobs, so the net players can’t simply drift back.
Mistakes
- Too high. It gets volleyed down at you.
- Too hard. It reaches them at knee height, which they will welcome.
- Staying back. If you hit a good chiquita and don’t move in, you’ve wasted it.
The chiquita pairs naturally with the lob: one high and deep, one low and short. Use both and the net players never settle.
Quick answers
What does chiquita mean in padel?
“Little one” in Spanish: a soft, short, low shot aimed at the opponents’ feet when they are at the net.
When should I hit a chiquita?
When both opponents are at the net and you want to move forward without lobbing, especially if they are standing close to the net.