The debate around the  padel service  does not weaken. On the professional circuit as well as in amateur tournaments, the question of  permitted striking height  The issue continues to generate discussion, and even tension, among players. The problem stems from a rule sometimes considered difficult to apply consistently. Faced with this problem, several solutions are emerging, ranging from regulatory adjustments to technological innovation.

What exactly does the FIP regulation say?

The official regulations of the International Federation of Padel precisely frames the act of serving:

  • The server must let the ball bounce on the ground before hitting it.
  • At the moment of impact,  the ball must be struck at a height equal to or less than the player's height .
  • The service must be performed below the belt.

This notion of  height related to the player's morphology  is at the heart of the debates. It remains difficult to judge with the naked eye and opens the door to interpretations.

What is the rule of service in padel?

A rule that is difficult to arbitrate

In practice, several limitations become apparent:

  •  Subjectivity  related to the size of the players
  •  Lack of a fixed visual reference point  in the field
  •  Proliferation of protests , particularly in self-arbitration

This ambiguity is becoming a recurring issue, both among amateurs and on the professional circuit.

Concrete proposals from the field

Faced with this situation, some padel stakeholders are proposing simple and applicable solutions.

Former Belgian number 1, Jérémy Gala, offers a visual alternative:

“Why not put a horizontal white line (for example, at the same height as the net) on the back glass as a reference point and at the same height for everyone? Easily and quickly verifiable by the players (plus video for the pros). Simple idea.”

An approach that would allow us to have a  fixed, visible and universal reference point , regardless of the player's size.

For his part, Fred Cazenave emphasizes the reality of the amateur game:

“It would also be interesting at the amateur level to resolve this service issue. Between the run-up, the height of the stroke, and the imaginary line, it becomes tiresome as a player and especially as a referee to try to explain things, knowing that no one takes responsibility.”

These testimonies illustrate a shared problem:  the difficulty in enforcing a rule perceived as vague .

Towards a technological solution?

Beyond visual cues, another idea is circulating:  standardize the height with a technological tool .

The concept would be to set a maximum height (for example, 1 meter) and integrate:

  • un  sensor or horizontal beam ,
  • a sound system triggering a  “Beep” if the limit is exceeded ,
  • instant service validation.

A solution that would eliminate all ambiguity and provide a  immediate and objective reading .

A direct impact on the game

Establishing a clear and measurable rule could also transform the way we serve.

Today, uncertainty surrounding the height limits certain initiatives. Tomorrow, with a precise framework:

  • the players might try  more varied services ,
  • see the appearance of  lift services , which are still very rarely used at the highest level,
  • dare more  risk-taking , particularly on attempts at aces.

Most importantly, this would put an end to several recurring debates:

  • the way to drop the ball,
  • the supposed advantage of taller players,
  • discussions about the actual height at the time of impact.

 All players would be placed on equal footing from the start of the exchange. which would enhance the readability and fairness of the game.

A logical evolution?

Padel continues to develop its structure internationally. In this context, some rules may evolve to meet the requirements of clarity and consistency.

The issue of service is part of it. Between adapting the regulations, adding visual cues or integrating technologies, several solutions exist.

It remains to be seen which one will be chosen. But one thing seems to be emerging:  The service, as it is currently implemented, could evolve in the coming years to put an end to a persistent controversy. .

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovered padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since then, padel has been part of his life. You often see him touring France to cover major French padel events.

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