Padel Doubles Positioning: Where to Stand on Court

Padel is always played in doubles, and court positioning is a team discipline. The fundamental principle is that both players in a pair should stay level with each other at all times — one player advancing while the other stays deep creates gaps that opponents can exploit.

The attacking position is at the net: both players standing roughly 2–3 metres from the net, in a central-left and central-right split. From here, you can cover the full width of the court and reach most volleys quickly. The goal is to establish and hold this position.

When defending (receiving lobs, chasing deep shots), both players retreat toward the baseline. The back position is typically near the service line, not hard against the back wall, which gives you room to play wall rebounds. Both players should step back together when a lob goes over their heads.

The transition zone — the middle of the court between the net and the service line — is the most dangerous area. Balls played to your feet while you're mid-court are very hard to handle. Move through it quickly when advancing to the net.

Communication is essential. Call 'mine' or 'yours' on balls between you, especially on the middle of the court. The player with the easier forehand usually takes central balls. On lobs, the person closest to the ball should call and take it, with the partner retreating alongside them.