The Padel Return of Serve: Three Options and When to Use Them
Why the return matters
Quick take. Read the serve early: its speed, spin and direction. Then pick one of three returns. The safe one is low, at the feet of the server as they run in. The smart one is a lob over the opponent already at the net. The brave one is an aggressive return, best saved for a weak serve.
In padel the serve is underhand and must bounce in the box first (see our serve guide). Servers usually follow it to the net, so a good return stops the serving team from settling there.
Get ready
Stand near the back of your half, a step in front of the glass. Watch the server's racket and the ball toss to read speed and spin. A ball with slice will skid off the glass; a flatter one will sit up.
Option 1: low at the feet
The server is running in. A low, controlled return at their feet forces them to volley up from below the net, which gives your team time to move forward. It is the most reliable return; think of it as a chiquita from deeper.
Option 2: the lob
The server's partner is already at the net. A good lob over them, deep towards the back glass, makes both opponents turn and run back, and you can take the net. It works best when the serve gives you time.
Option 3: attack
A slow or short serve that sits up can be hit firmly down the middle or at the side fence. Keep this for the right ball: an attacking return that goes long or into the net gives away an easy point.
Common mistakes
- Waiting too close to the glass, so the rebound jams you.
- Trying to hit winners on good serves.
- Always choosing the same return, so the server knows what's coming.
Which side you return from changes things too; see left or right side. Practise it with a coach, then test it at a game from the tournaments page.
Share your favourite return with the Bangkok Padel Community on Facebook.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
What is the best return of serve in padel?
There is no single best one. A low ball at the feet of the server coming to the net is the safest, a lob over the net player is a strong option, and an aggressive return works best on a weak serve.
Where should I stand to return serve in padel?
Near the back of the court on your side, a little away from the back glass, so you can take the ball after the bounce or after it comes off the glass.
Can I volley the serve in padel?
No. The serve must bounce in the service box before you hit it, and you may let it rebound off the glass first.
Related articles
Padel Wall Rules Explained: Which Walls You Can Use and When
The walls are what make padel different, but the rules about them confuse many new players. When the ball can hit the glass, when it can't, what happens with the mesh, and what if it flies out of the court.
Read more
Talking to Your Padel Partner: The Calls That Win Points
Padel is a doubles game, and pairs who talk lose fewer balls down the middle. The five simple calls to use, who takes the middle, how to move as a pair and what to say (and not say) at changeovers.
Read more
The Chiquita in Padel: The Soft Shot That Wins the Net
When both opponents are at the net, a soft, low ball at their feet can be better than any smash. What the chiquita is, when to play it, when not to, and how to practise it.
Read more