Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world – and now it’s coming to Malawi in a big way at Pulse Park! If you’ve heard of it but aren’t quite sure how it works, here’s a simple breakdown.
The Court
Padel is always played in doubles (two players on each team).
The court looks like a smaller tennis court but is surrounded by glass walls and metal fencing. These walls are part of the game – the ball can bounce off them, just like in squash.
How to Play
* The point starts with an underarm serve (ball must bounce first).
* The ball must land in the correct service box, just like tennis.
* After the serve, each rally begins. The ball can bounce once on the ground, then it can hit the wall or fence and still be in play.
* If the ball hits the wall or cage before bouncing on the ground, it’s out.
* Each side is only allowed one bounce. If it bounces twice, the other team wins the point.
* Sometimes the ball can even bounce out of the court. Players are allowed to run outside the door to return it – making for some exciting rallies!
Scoring
Scoring works exactly like tennis:
* First point = 15
* Second = 30
* Third = 40
* Win by 2 points to take the game.
Six games make up a set, and you need to win by at least two games. If it’s tied at 40-40, that’s called “deuce.”
Serving Rules
* Always serve underarm after bouncing the ball once.
* Contact must be below waist level.
* Keep one foot on the ground behind the line when serving.
* If your serve lands in the box and then hits the back glass, the point continues.
* If it hits the cage/fence first, it’s out.
* Like tennis, you get two chances (first serve and second serve).
Playing with the Walls
The walls are what make padel unique:
* You can let the ball bounce and hit the wall before you return it.
* You can also aim shots into the walls to make tricky rebounds for your opponents.
* Shots that bounce and then hit the glass or fence are usually in – unless they come straight off the serve and hit the fence first.
Why Try Padel?
Padel is easy to learn, less technical than tennis, and very social because it’s always doubles. The rallies last longer, the action is fast, and anyone can enjoy it – whether you’re new to sport or a regular player.
Pulse Park will soon be opening Lilongwe’s first professional padel courts. Get ready to pick up a racket, bring some friends, and discover the most exciting new sport in Malawi!