The Approach Shot in Padel: Transitioning to the Net

In padel, the team at the net holds the dominant position in the vast majority of rallies. The approach shot is the bridge between the back court and the net — a ball played while moving forward that ideally forces the opponent into a defensive shot, giving the approaching player time to reach a stable net position.

A good approach shot has three characteristics. First, placement: it should be deep and directed at the opponent's weaker side (typically the backhand) or to a wide angle that prevents a clean pass. Second, height: it should travel low over the net and stay low off the court, reducing the opponent's attack options. Third, timing: the approach is played when the opponent's ball lands short or is higher than waist height — not in response to a strong ball.

The most common approach shot patterns are the deep crosscourt drive (opens the court for a net volley), the down-the-line drive to the backhand corner (forces a defensive shot along the wall), and the low slice approach (keeps the ball below net height after the bounce, limiting attack). Avoid slow, high-bouncing approach shots — these invite an aggressive passing shot.

Footwork during the approach is critical. The split step — a small hop to land balanced just as the opponent strikes — is essential for setting up a quality first volley after the approach. Players who sprint all the way to the net without a split step arrive unbalanced and struggle to react to sharp angles.

Knowing when NOT to approach is equally important. Do not approach off a deep, fast ball — you will not have time to reach net position before the opponent's next shot. Do not approach when both opponents are already at the net — you will arrive late into a disadvantageous situation. The best approaches come off short balls, defensive balls from opponents, or after forcing an opponent to the back corners.