Left or Right Side in Padel? How to Choose Your Position
Why sides matter
Quick take. In padel doubles each player keeps one half of the court for the match. The right side (the "drive" side) is usually the builder: steady, patient, setting up the point. The left side (the "backhand" side, called revés in Spanish) is usually the finisher, taking most overheads and the balls down the middle with the forehand.
In tennis doubles players switch about. In padel you mostly stay put, so who plays where shapes your whole game plan.
The right side: the brain
The right-side player for right-handers hits more backhands from the corner and the glass, returns from the deuce side and keeps the ball low and deep. The job is to be reliable: fewer errors, good lobs, patience until the partner gets a ball to attack. Our lob guide is a good place to start.
The left side: the finisher
For two right-handers, the middle of the court belongs to the left player's forehand. The left player also takes most of the high balls, using the bandeja, the vibora and the smash. They need a good overhead and quick sideways movement.
How to choose
Some simple rules of thumb:
- A lone left-hander usually plays on the right, so both forehands meet in the middle.
- The player with the better overhead goes left.
- The player who moves better sideways goes left.
- The calmer player on the first ball (the return of serve) goes right.
- Still unsure? Play a set each way and compare.
Beginners: learn both
At social games and Americanos in Bangkok you will be paired with new partners all the time. Being comfortable on both sides makes you the easy choice. Play a set on each side, ask a coach to watch, and you'll soon find which feels like home.
Find a game on the tournaments page, or ask the Bangkok Padel Community on Facebook for a partner.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Which side is better in padel, left or right?
Neither is better. The right side usually builds the point with consistent, patient shots; the left side usually finishes it with overheads and takes balls down the middle.
Where should a left-handed player play in padel?
A lone left-hander in a pair usually plays on the right, so both forehands cover the middle. A left-hander on the right with a right-hander on the left is seen as the ideal pairing.
Should beginners pick one side?
Not yet. Learning both sides makes you a better partner and easier to pair at social games, so swap sides between sets while you learn.
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