Padel courts across the UK are filling up fast. New players arrive each week, rackets in hand, ready to smash their first volleys. But the sport thrives on more than skill. Good manners keep the game enjoyable for everyone. These nine rules will help you fit in and earn respect on court.
1. Call the Score Loudly Before Every Point
The server must announce the score before serving. Say your team's score first, then your opponents'. If you're serving at 3-2, call out "3-2" and wait a beat. This simple act prevents confusion and disputes. Players at clubs like The Padel Club in Manchester or Padel Nation in London follow this rule without fail.
Never assume everyone remembers the score. Memory fails during long rallies. A clear announcement keeps the match flowing smoothly.
2. Give Opponents the Benefit of the Doubt on Line Calls
You can only call lines on your side of the net. If you're unsure whether a ball landed in or out, play it as in. This rule separates recreational padel from professional matches. No video replay exists at your local club.
Trust your opponents to make honest calls on their side. If they say the ball was out, accept it. Players who argue over every line call soon find themselves without partners.
3. Return Stray Balls Immediately
Balls roll onto your court from neighboring matches all the time. Stop your rally if a stray ball enters your court mid-point. Kick or hit it gently back to the court it came from. Never ignore it or delay the return.
The reverse applies too. If your ball lands on another court, wait until their point finishes before asking for it back. Patience here shows respect for other players' games.
4. Warm Up Your Opponents Properly
The warm-up lasts about five minutes. Hit balls directly to your opponents, not between them. Feed them volleys at the net. Let them practice their overheads by lobbing a few high balls. This isn't the time to show off your winners.
Players at clubs like Padel Point in Bristol know this well. A good warm-up prepares everyone for better rallies. You'll get the same courtesy in return.
5. Apologise for Net Cords and Lucky Shots
Sometimes the ball clips the net and dribbles over for a cheap point. Other times, your mishit creates an unreturnable trajectory. Raise your hand or racket and say "sorry" or "lucky." This acknowledgment shows sportsmanship.
Your opponents know you didn't plan it. The apology simply recognises that chance played a role. This small gesture keeps the atmosphere friendly.
6. Never Cross the Net Until the Match Ends
Stay on your side of the court during play. Don't reach over the net to shake hands between games or retrieve a ball. Wait until the match finishes completely. Then walk around to your opponents' side for handshakes.
This rule comes from tennis tradition but applies equally to padel. Breaking it looks amateurish and can disrupt the court surface or net tension.
7. Keep Noise to a Minimum on Adjacent Courts
Padel is social, but shouting between points on one court disturbs matches nearby. Save loud celebrations for match point. Keep conversations during changeovers quiet. Players need to hear their partners calling shots.
Clubs pack courts close together. Sound carries easily through the glass walls. Your volume affects four other matches around you.
8. Arrive On Time and Ready to Play
Court time costs money and books up weeks ahead. Arriving late steals minutes from everyone's game. Change into your kit before your slot starts. Bring your own balls if the booking requires it.
Most UK clubs charge by the hour. A 60-minute booking means 60 minutes of play, not 50 minutes after you've tied your shoes and found your water bottle.
9. Rotate Partners in Social Games
Many clubs run social sessions where players rotate after each game. The winners might stay on while losers rotate, or everyone switches partners regardless of the result. Follow the system your club uses.
Don't monopolise the court with the same partner all night. Mix with different players. This spreads the fun around and helps you learn new playing styles. Places like The Padel Point in Norwich organise these sessions expertly.
These nine rules aren't written in any official handbook. You won't find them in the International Padel Federation regulations. But walk onto any court in the UK and you'll see players following them. They make the difference between a good game and a great one. Master these basics and you'll be welcomed on any court you visit.