Best Pickleball Guide

In the exhilarating realm of racquet sports, the clash between Padel and Pickleball has ignited a global frenzy. When it comes to choosing between these two dynamic games, understanding their origins and evolution becomes crucial. Padel, with its roots tracing back to Mexico in the late 1960s, has since skyrocketed in popularity, particularly in Spain and Latin America.

Pickleball, on the other hand, emerged in the mid-1960s in the United States and has gained significant traction across the country. Join us as we embark on a thrilling journey through the history, statistics, and unique characteristics that define the riveting battle of Padel vs Pickleball.

As your ultimate pickleball guide, we have sum up the main differences, similarities and everything you need to know about padel vs pickleball.

What is Padel?

Padel has a surprisingly similar origin story. It was also invented in the late 1960s by a father who wanted to keep his bored child entertained.

Enrique Corcuera was a businessman in Mexico in 1969, trying to take a nap on a hot summer day. But his daughter kept hitting tennis balls against the wall of their house, disrupting his rest. So, Corcuera decided to build a special wall for her to play a game. He made a few other changes, and that’s how the game of padel came to be. By chance, Corcuera’s friend, Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenb, visited and tried the new sport. He instantly loved it.

When the prince returned to Spain, he introduced padel to his wealthy and influential friends. Even the King of Spain started playing. Today, more than 25 million people play padel in 90 countries.

The invention of padel stemmed from a father’s desire to entertain his restless child. Corcuera’s simple idea, born out of everyday life, quickly spread and captured the attention of people around the world. Padel continues to enchant players with its accessible and exciting gameplay, reminding us that great things can come from unexpected beginnings.

Over the years, padel continued to expand its reach globally, spreading to other European countries, Latin America, and beyond. The International Padel Federation (FIP) was established in 1991 to govern and promote the sport worldwide. Today, padel has a significant following, with professional leagues, international competitions, and a growing number of recreational players enjoying the sport.

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball was invented in 1965 by two friends named Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell. They created the sport on Bainbridge Island, Seattle, with the intention of keeping their kids entertained. Using various sports equipment, they had available, they came up with a game that involved using ping-pong paddles and a wiffle ball on a badminton court.

As they started playing with their families, they realized that pickleball had great potential. They made some adjustments to the rules and soon pickleball became a popular activity. People in the surrounding community quickly caught on to the excitement, and within a year, many individuals were hooked on the sport. Some enthusiasts were so passionate that they even built their own pickleball courts.

Pickleball’s popularity grew rapidly, especially in states like California and Florida. Initially, it was seniors who recognized the sport’s potential and became the main players. They saw the fun and health benefits that pickleball offered.

By 1990, pickleball had spread to all 50 states, becoming a widely enjoyed sport across the nation. The first national pickleball tournament took place in 2009 in Buckeye, Arizona, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s history.

In recent years, pickleball has experienced a surge in popularity. The sport gained even more attention during the 2020 pandemic when people had more leisure time and sought outdoor activities. Pickleball’s accessibility, simplicity, and fun nature made it an attractive choice for individuals of different ages and skill levels.

The rising popularity of pickleball can be attributed to its inclusive nature, easy learning curve, and the sense of community it fosters. It has become a social activity that brings people together and provides a fun way to stay active. Pickleball is now televised through events like Major League Pickleball, and facilities dedicated to the sport can be found in nearly every city across America.

How to Play Pickleball?

Pickleball, with its unique blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, offers an exciting and fast-paced racquet sport experience. If you’re new to the game or looking to enhance your skills, here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Step 1: Gather the Equipment

To play Pickleball, you’ll need a few essential items. These include a Pickleball paddle, which is usually made of lightweight materials like graphite or composite, and a Pickleball, which is a plastic ball with holes. Make sure you have a comfortable pair of court shoes and dress in appropriate athletic attire.

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with the Court

Pickleball is typically played on a rectangular court, either indoors or outdoors. The dimensions of the court are smaller than a traditional tennis court. The court is divided into four sections: two service courts in the front and two non-volley zones, also known as the “kitchen,” near the net. Take some time to understand the layout and markings of the court before starting your game.

Step 3: Learn the Rules

While Pickleball may seem intimidating at first, the rules are relatively straightforward. The game can be played in singles or doubles, with the latter being more common. The objective is to hit the ball over the net and land it within the boundaries of the opponent’s court, aiming to score points while preventing your opponent from doing the same. Familiarize yourself with the rules regarding serving, faults, scoring, and the non-volley zone.

Step 4: Master the Basic Strokes

To excel in Pickleball, it’s crucial to develop solid stroke mechanics. Start by practicing the following fundamental shots:

Serve: Stand behind the baseline and serve diagonally into the opponent’s service court. Ensure that your serve clears the non-volley zone.

Dink: This is a soft shot that involves lightly tapping the ball over the net, aiming to keep it low and close to the net. Dinking is often used during the non-volley zone exchanges.

Groundstroke: Similar to a tennis groundstroke, this shot involves hitting the ball after it bounces, aiming for depth and control.

Volley: A volley is hitting the ball out of the air before it bounces. Practice volleys from various positions on the court, honing your reflexes and accuracy.

Step 5: Develop Strategy and Communication

As you gain proficiency in the basic shots, start incorporating strategy into your gameplay. Communicate effectively with your doubles partner, coordinating your movements and shots. Identify your opponent’s weaknesses and exploit them while adjusting your positioning on the court accordingly.

How to Play Padel?

Padel, often described as a fusion of tennis and squash, offers a unique and dynamic racquet sport experience. To get started and enhance your skills on the Padel court, follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather the Equipment

To play Padel, you’ll need a Padel racket, which resembles a tennis racket but with perforated holes, and a standard tennis ball. Choose a racket that suits your playing style and preferences. Additionally, wear comfortable court shoes and appropriate athletic attire.

Step 2: Understand the Padel Court

Padel is typically played on a court that features glass walls and a wire mesh fence. The court is smaller than a tennis court and has a lower net. Familiarize yourself with the court layout, including the service boxes and the playing area. The glass walls are also in play, allowing players to use them strategically to return shots.

Step 3: Learn the Rules

To play Padel effectively, it’s essential to understand the rules of the game. Padel can be played in singles or doubles, with the latter being more common. The objective is to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s side of the court, aiming to score points while preventing your opponent from doing the same. Familiarize yourself with the rules regarding serving, faults, scoring, and the various shots allowed during the game.

Step 4: Master the Basic Shots

To excel in Padel, it’s crucial to develop proficiency in the basic shots. Start by practicing the following fundamental strokes:

Serve: Stand behind the baseline and serve diagonally into the opponent’s service box. You can use an underhand serve or an overhead serve, depending on your skill level and preference.

Forehand and Backhand Groundstrokes: Similar to tennis, practice hitting forehand and backhand groundstrokes. Focus on generating power, accuracy, and control with each shot.

Volley: Padel is known for its volley-centric gameplay. Work on your volleys, which involve hitting the ball out of the air before it bounces. Practice both forehand and backhand volleys, and aim to keep the ball low and close to the net.

Smash: The smash is a powerful overhead shot that can be used to finish off a point. Practice timing, technique, and placement to execute effective smashes.

Step 5: Develop Strategy and Communication

Padel is a strategic game that requires effective communication and teamwork, especially in doubles play. Coordinate with your partner to ensure proper court coverage and shot selection. Develop a strategy based on your strengths and exploit your opponent’s weaknesses. Practice communication through verbal cues, hand signals, and an understanding of each other’s playing style.

Step 6: Adapt to the Court and Walls

One of the unique aspects of Padel is the presence of walls that are in play. Use the walls strategically to create unexpected angles and shots. Practice hitting shots off the walls, including lobs and low bounces, to keep your opponents on their toes. Familiarize yourself with the ball’s behavior when it comes into contact with the walls, and adjust your positioning and footwork accordingly.

Step 7: Play and Practice Regularly

To truly master Padel, nothing beats regular practice and gameplay. Find local clubs or facilities that offer Padel courts and join in on matches and tournaments. Playing against different opponents will enhance your skills and expose you to various playing styles. Dedicate time to practice your shots, footwork, and strategy both individually and with your doubles partner.

What are Scoring Rules In Pickleball?

The scoring rules in Pickleball can vary depending on whether you’re playing singles or doubles. Here’s a breakdown of the scoring rules for both formats:

Scoring in Pickleball Singles:

In singles play, the serving and scoring rules are as follows:

• The server begins by serving from the right-hand side (even score) or the left-hand side (odd score) of the court.
• The server must hit the ball underhand, below the waist, and diagonally cross-court into the opponent’s service court.
• The serve must clear the non-volley zone (the area within 7 feet of the net).
• If the server wins the point, they continue to serve from the alternate side of the court.
• If the receiver wins the point, they become the server and serve from their respective side of the court.
• In singles play, only the server has the opportunity to score points. If the server wins a rally, they earn a point.
• The server’s score is always even when serving from the right-hand side and odd when serving from the left-hand side.
• The first server starts with “0” or “love,” and the server’s score increases by one with each successful point.

Scoring in Pickleball Doubles:

In doubles play, the serving and scoring rules are slightly different:

• The team on the right-hand side of the court begins serving the ball.
• The server must hit the ball underhand, below the waist, and diagonally cross-court into the opponent’s service court.
• The serve must clear the non-volley zone.
• If the serving team wins the point, the server continues to serve from the same side.
• If the receiving team wins the point, they become the serving team, and the server rotates to the opposite side of the court.
• In doubles play, both teams have the opportunity to score points.
• The serving team scores points only when they win a rally.
• The first serving team starts with “0” or “love,” and the server’s score increases by one with each successful point.
• The serving team continues to serve until they commit a fault (e.g., hitting the ball out of bounds or into the net).

Winning the Game:

In both singles and doubles play, the game is typically played to 11 points. However, players can agree to play to a different number, such as 15 or 21, based on their preferences and time constraints. The winning team or player must have a two-point advantage over their opponents. For example, if the score is 10-10, the game continues until one team or player has a two-point lead and wins the game.

It’s worth noting that there are variations of scoring rules in informal or recreational play, such as playing to 21 points without requiring a two-point advantage. Therefore, it’s always advisable to confirm the specific scoring rules before starting a Pickleball match.

What are Scoring Rules in Padel?

The scoring rules in Padel are similar to traditional tennis scoring. Here’s a breakdown of the scoring rules in Padel:

Scoring in Padel:

• The game is played in sets, and a set is typically played to 6 games.
• To win a set, a team must have a two-game advantage over their opponents. If the score reaches 6-6, a tiebreaker is played.
• In the tiebreaker, teams compete to win seven points with a two-point advantage.
• The team that wins the tiebreaker wins the set. The tiebreaker score is typically represented as 7-6 or with the number of points won by each team.
• If the score is 6-6 in the final set, a tiebreaker is played to determine the winner of the match.

Scoring within a Game:

• Each game is divided into points, and scoring within a game follows a specific sequence: 15, 30, 40, and game point.
• The first point won by a team is called 15, the second point is called 30, and the third point is called 40.
• If both teams reach 40 (known as deuce), they continue to play until one team wins two consecutive points and takes the game.
• When a team reaches game point, they have the opportunity to win the game on the next point.
• If the game reaches deuce, the next point won after deuce gives the team advantage. If the team with advantage wins the next point, they win the game. If the opposing team wins the next point, the score returns to deuce.

Alternate Serving:

• The team that serves first is determined by a coin toss or another agreed-upon method.
• After the first game, the teams alternate serving every game.
• The server starts from the right-hand side of the court and serves diagonally into the opponent’s service box, similar to tennis.
• The serve must clear the net and land within the service box diagonally opposite the server.
• If the serving team wins the point, the server continues to serve from the same side.
• If the receiving team wins the point, they become the serving team, and the server rotates to the opposite side.

It’s worth noting that Padel scoring can vary slightly depending on regional or club rules. It’s always a good idea to confirm the specific scoring rules before starting a Padel match.

Difference between Padel and Pickleball:

Here are some key differences between Padel and Pickleball:

Court Size and Dimensions:

Padel is played on a court that is smaller than a traditional tennis court. The court measures 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width, enclosed by walls and a wire mesh fence.

Pickleball is typically played on a smaller court compared to tennis. The court measures 13.4 meters in length and 6.1 meters in width, similar to the size of a badminton court.

Court Surface:

Padel courts usually have an artificial grass or artificial turf surface. Some courts may have a hard court or clay surface as well.

Pickleball courts can be found with various surfaces, including hard courts, grass, or indoor surfaces such as wood, concrete, or asphalt.

Equipment:

Padel is played with solid paddles, similar to tennis rackets but with perforated holes and no strings. The balls used in Padel are similar to tennis balls but slightly less pressurized.

Pickleball is played with solid paddles made of materials like graphite or composite. The ball used in Pickleball is a plastic ball with holes, similar to a wiffle ball but smaller.

Gameplay:

Padel is played in doubles format, where teams of two players compete against each other. The ball is allowed to bounce once on each side before being returned. Players can use the walls to play shots, adding a unique dynamic to the game.

Pickleball can be played in both singles and doubles formats. The ball is served underhand, and after the serve, both teams must let the ball bounce once on each side before volleys (hitting the ball out of the air) are allowed. The non-volley zone near the net, also known as the “kitchen,” restricts players from hitting volleys from that area.

Scoring System:

Padel uses a scoring system similar to traditional tennis, with games, sets, and tiebreakers. The scoring follows a sequence of 15, 30, 40, and game point.

Pickleball has a unique scoring system. In most cases, games are played to 11 points, and points can be scored by the serving team only. The serving team must win the rally to score a point.

Similarites between Padel and Pickleball:

Despite their differences, Padel and Pickleball also share some similarities. Here are a few common aspects between the two sports:

Racquet Sports: Both Padel and Pickleball are racquet sports that involve hitting a ball with a paddle/racket.

Accessibility: Both sports are designed to be inclusive and accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. They offer a welcoming environment for beginners and a competitive edge for more experienced players.

Social Interaction: Padel and Pickleball promote social interaction and community engagement. They are often played in doubles format, fostering teamwork and camaraderie.

Low-Impact Nature: Both sports are relatively low-impact, putting less strain on joints compared to higher-impact sports like tennis. This makes them suitable for players with varying fitness levels and physical abilities.

Strategy and Shot Placement: Padel and Pickleball require players to employ tactics, strategy, and precise shot placement to outmaneuver opponents and win points.

Growing Popularity: Padel and Pickleball have been gaining popularity worldwide, attracting increasing numbers of enthusiasts and growing communities of players.

Where Can I Play Padel?

Playing Padel is not so easy and accessible in the US, however if you want to play padel you can build your own court which will cost you a lot and rather not a good idea. You can play padel in clubs like Padel Haus in NYC and Padel Clube in Chicago. They have proper setup to play padel but accessing them is not cheap.

Where Can i Play Pickleball?

Pickleball is very popular in US so popular that a lot of tennis court facilities are turning their courts to Pickleball court. We have list down some of the best indoor and outdoor pickleball courts in the US. Check them if they are near you. Give them a visit and enjoy pickleball.

Final thoughts:

Hopefully you have better understanding of both games. Padel and Pickleball offer distinct and enjoyable racquet sport experiences. Padel’s enclosed court, wall play, and strategic teamwork provide a unique and exciting game. Pickleball’s smaller court, non-volley zone, and precise shot-making offer a fast-paced and accessible option.

FAQs

What are the court dimensions for Padel and Pickleball?

Padel courts are larger, measuring 20 meters by 10 meters. Pickleball courts are smaller, measuring 13.4 meters by 6.1 meters.

How many players are on a team in Padel and Pickleball?

Padel is typically played in doubles, while Pickleball can be played in singles or doubles.

What is the scoring system in Padel?

Padel follows a scoring system similar to traditional tennis, with games, sets, and tiebreakers.

Which sport is more suitable for beginners?

Both Padel and Pickleball are accessible for beginners, but Pickleball’s smaller court and slower pace make it easier to pick up initially.

Are there international tournaments for Padel and Pickleball?

Yes, both Padel and Pickleball have international tournaments that showcase top-level competition.

Which sport is more popular globally?

Padel has a larger global following, particularly in Europe and Latin America, while Pickleball has been gaining popularity worldwide in recent years.

What are the main differences between a Padel ball and a Pickleball ball?

Padel balls are similar to tennis balls, while Pickleball balls are smaller and have holes, resembling a wiffle ball. Padel balls are pressurized, while Pickleball balls are not.

Which sports in more popular Padel or Pickleball?

Padel is more popular on the global level especially in Latin America and Spain. However pickleball is popular in the US.