Section 4: Players & Officials
Doubles Only
Padel is played exclusively as a doubles sport — two players per side, for a total of four players on court. There is no official singles format in FIP-sanctioned competition. This fundamental rule distinguishes padel from most other racquet sports and is central to the game's strategic identity.
Player Positions
Each pair typically organizes themselves with one player on the drive side (right side, also called the forehand side or "derecha") and one player on the backhand side (left side, also called the "revés"). However, players are free to position themselves anywhere on their half of the court during a rally. Tactical positioning often involves one player at the net and one at the back, or both players moving forward together to control the net position.
Serving Order and Rotation
At the start of each set, each pair decides which player will serve first. The serving order alternates between the four players throughout the set. Once established, the serving order must be maintained for the entire set but may be changed at the start of a new set. Within a game, the server alternates service courts, beginning from the right-hand side on the first point.
Chair Umpire and Officials
In professional and sanctioned tournament play, matches are officiated by a chair umpire who sits in an elevated position at the net post. The chair umpire is responsible for calling the score, ruling on disputed calls, enforcing the rules, and managing player conduct. Additional officials may include a net cord judge (to detect let serves), service judges, and a tournament referee who oversees the entire event and handles appeals.
Player Conduct and Code of Conduct
Players must adhere to the FIP Code of Conduct at all times. This includes maintaining respect for opponents, officials, and spectators. Players must not engage in gamesmanship, deliberate time-wasting, or unsportsmanlike behavior. The chair umpire may issue warnings, point penalties, or game penalties for violations. Serious offenses may result in disqualification from the match or the tournament.