Padel Volleys: Block, Punch and Stay at the Net

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Four players at the net trading volleys. Short punches, aimed low or between the opponents, decide these exchanges.

The short version. At the net, don’t swing: punch. Racket up in front of you, short backswing, firm wrist, and aim deep down the middle unless you have a clear chance to put it at someone’s feet. Most volleys are about keeping the net, not winning the point.

The ready position

Stand about two to three metres from the net, knees bent, racket up in front of your chest with the head above your wrist. From there you can reach most balls with a short movement instead of a swing. Many beginners stand too close to the net, which invites the lob; too far back, and the ball dips at your feet.

The net zone: two to three metres from the net. Defensive volleys go deep down the middle; attacking ones go low between the opponents.

The technique

Short backswing. The ball is coming fast; you supply direction, not power.
Firm wrist, contact in front. Meet the ball ahead of your body.
Step in with the opposite foot when you have time.
Slice slightly to keep the volley low after it bounces.

Defending versus attacking volleys

Defending (the ball is low or fast): block it deep, down the middle. Depth pushes the opponents back and keeps you at the net.

Attacking (the ball is high and slow): put it at a net player’s feet, between the opponents, or into the side glass at an angle so it bounces out sideways.

Fast exchanges

When all four players are at the net, the point usually goes to whoever keeps the ball lowest. Aim at hips and feet, not heads. Hitting someone with the ball wins you the point under the rules, but at club level it costs you friends, so keep it below the waist.

Mistakes

Big swings that send the ball into the back glass for an easy return.
Volleying balls that were going out. A ball that would hit your back glass or mesh without bouncing first is out, and the point is yours. If you volley it, you have saved your opponents. Learn to judge it, and let your partner call it.
Letting the racket drop between shots.

Volleys keep the net; the bandeja keeps it when you are lobbed. Together they are how pairs at the net win points.

FAQs

Quick answers

Can you volley in padel?

Yes, anywhere except on the return of serve, which must bounce first.

Where should I aim a volley?

Deep and to the middle when you are defending the net; low at the feet or between the opponents when you are attacking.