When to Approach the Net in Padel

The pair controlling the net dominates the rally. But approaching the net at the wrong moment is a mistake that costs points. Learn to pick the right moment.

The Principle: Net = Attack

In padel, the pair at the net holds the advantage. From the net position you control the angles, cover the diagonals, and close rallies with volleys. But you should only move forward after a quality shot.

Key rule: “Be patient at the back and play a good enough shot that gives you time to move forward.”

Signals to Approach

1. After a Good Chiquita

The chiquita drops at the opponents’ feet, forcing a weak volley. Move forward immediately after the shot.

2. After a Deep Lob

The lob must clear the opponent’s head, giving you time to take position.

3. After the Serve (for the Server)

A good server runs to the net immediately after serving.

4. After a Good Return

If the return does not touch the wall, the ball reaches the opponent more quickly, giving you time to advance.

Approach Technique

The Split Step

The split step is a small hop landing with feet apart. It is performed at the exact moment the opponent strikes the ball.

• Too early → you fall onto your heels and lose reactivity
• Too late → you are late to the ball’s trajectory
• In padel the split step is lighter, quicker, and higher than in tennis
• Land on the balls of the feet, knees bent

Moving as a Pair

The golden rule: both partners move together.

• Together to the net → together back on a lob
• If one stays back → a huge diagonal gap opens in the centre of the court
• Synchronisation is the key difference between strong and weak pairs

When NOT to Approach

Common Mistakes

1. Approaching after a bad shot. If your ball did not trouble the opponent, stay where you are.

2. Sprinting instead of controlling. A sprint to the net instead of a controlled advance. You should be ready for the volley, not out of breath.

3. Too close to the net. Standing right at the net makes you easy to lob.

4. One goes, the other stays. Your partner must move with you. Communication before and during the rally is essential.

5. Trying to cover the whole court. Each player covers their half. Trust your partner.

Drills

1. Chiquita + transition. Hit a chiquita, immediately move forward, ready for the volley. 10 rallies.

2. Defence/attack rotation. Deep defence → lob → move to the net → finishing volley.

3. Split-step drill. Partner hits balls from the baseline; you are at the net performing a split step before every volley. 20 balls.

4. Synchronised movement. 2 vs 2, focus on sync: the coach calls “forward” or “back” and both partners move simultaneously.