Archives: Glossary Terms

Match Point is the term used when a player or team is one point away from winning the match. Winning this point secures the victory. Match points are critical moments, often requiring players to balance aggression with caution.

Mexicano is a social tournament format in padel where players rotate partners after each match, similar to the Americano format. Points are accumulated individually, and the player with the most points at the end of the tournament is declared the winner. This format is popular for its social aspect and inclusivity.

The Net in padel is the barrier that divides the court into two halves. It’s lower than a tennis net, allowing for quicker and more dynamic play. Players must hit the ball over the net while keeping it within the boundaries of the opponent’s court to continue the rally.

Net Cord refers to the part of the net that supports its structure and helps keep it taut. When a ball hits the net cord and still lands in play, it can result in unpredictable bounces, often catching players off guard.

No-Ad Scoring is a scoring system in padel where, at deuce (40-40), the next point decides the game, eliminating the traditional “advantage” points. This format speeds up the game and adds intensity, as each player or team has only one chance to secure the game after deuce.

An Out Ball in padel refers to a ball that lands outside the court’s boundary lines. If a player hits an out ball, the point is awarded to the opponent. It’s important for players to keep their shots within the confines of the court to avoid losing points.

The Overhead Smash is a powerful shot executed above the head, usually in response to a lob. The aim is to hit the ball with force, often driving it down into the opponent’s court to finish the point. This shot is a key offensive weapon in padel.

Padel Balls are specifically designed for the game, similar to tennis balls but slightly smaller and with lower pressure. This design makes the balls less bouncy, which is ideal for the enclosed padel court, allowing for more controlled play and longer rallies.

A Padel Racket is solid, perforated, and shorter than a tennis racket, without strings. It’s typically made from materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, or foam cores, designed to provide control, power, and maneuverability. The racket’s design is crucial for executing various shots effectively.

Punto de Oro, or “Golden Point,” is used in no-ad scoring. At deuce, the team that wins the next point wins the game. The receiving team chooses which player will return the serve, making this a high-stakes moment in the match.