Left Side vs Right Side in Padel
In padel, each player in the pair has a distinct role. The right side is the constructor; the left side is the finisher. Understanding the differences helps you choose your position and develop the right skills.
Photo credit
Photo by Fellipe Ditadi on Unsplash
Why Roles Matter
Padel is a doubles sport. Unlike tennis, where both players perform roughly the same function, in padel the two sides differ fundamentally in their tasks and the skills they demand.
The Right Side (Derecho)
The right-side player is the constructor. Their job: build the rally, keep the ball in play, and set up a comfortable ball for the partner.
Key Skills
- Backhand volley — the critical shot, as most balls travel through the centre of the court
- Patience — waiting for the right moment to attack rather than forcing the issue
- Accuracy and control — placement over power
- Anticipation — reading where the opponent will return the ball
- Mixing short volleys to the sides with deep, low volleys
Who Suits the Right Side
- Players with a strong backhand and consistent volley
- Patient, tactically minded players
- Those more comfortable constructing than finishing
The Left Side (Revés)
The left-side player is the finisher. Their job: aggressively close out rallies and dominate the overhead game.
Key Skills
- Strong forehand — from the left side the forehand covers the centre of the court
- Overhead game — command of the bandeja, vibora, and topspin smash
- Speed and agility — covers more ground, responsible for central lobs
- Aggression — the ability to end the rally in one shot
Who Suits the Left Side
- Athletic players with good speed
- Those confident with overhead shots
- Players with a dominant forehand
Left-Handed Players: A Special Case
Left-handers nearly always play the right side. The reason: both players then have their forehand covering the centre, significantly strengthening central control and the overhead game.
The formula: “Lefty always to the right” — works in 90% of cases.
Exception: when both players are left-handed.
How to Choose Your Side
| Criterion | Right Side | Left Side |
|---|---|---|
| Dominant shot | Backhand | Forehand |
| Play style | Constructive | Aggressive |
| Overhead game | Less critical | Essential |
| Court coverage | Moderate | Extensive |
| Temperament | Patient | Decisive |
[EXPERT OPINION] Beginners are recommended to play both sides to develop all-round skills. Specialisation comes with experience.
Examples from the Professional Tour
- Juan Lebrón — reached world No. 6 on the left, then switched to the right with Paquito Navarro and became No. 1. Later returned to the left with Martín Di Nenno
- Arturo Coello and Agustín Tapia — an example of a successful left/right partnership
- Alejandro Galán — an aggressive left-side finisher
Common Mistakes
Both players want to finish. If both play aggressively from the left side, there is no one to build the rally. One must be the constructor.
Ignoring the centre. There is a diagonal corridor between the two players — most balls are directed there. Both must cover the centre.
Rigid side assignment at a low level. At 2.0–3.0, it is more beneficial to switch sides for all-round development.
Drills
Backhand volley to the centre. Partner hits all balls through the centre; the right-side player takes them with the backhand. 3 sets of 10 balls.
Pair rotations. Play rounds of 10 rallies on each side. Compare how each feels and the results.
Centre coverage. One ball to the right-side player (backhand), the next to the left-side player (forehand). Focus on covering the diagonal.
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