This is one of the first questions asked when a new pair forms on the court: "Do you play on the left or the right?" In the collective imagination, right-handed players position themselves on the left to hit high balls down the middle, while left-handed players sit on the right for the same reason. A simple logic… but one that no longer suffices to define each player's role. Modern padel has changed the dynamics of the game, and the choice of side is no longer simply a matter of hand dominance.

The player on the left: the one who finishes

Traditionally, the left side is associated with the player responsible for finishing points. Exposed to more high balls, they must be able to maintain pressure, hit hard when the opportunity arises, and cover large areas of the court. Their game relies on impact: powerful bandejas, shots from par 3s or par 4s, control of fast trajectories, and a constant presence near the center.

Profile typically observed:

  • offensive tendency
  • natural power
  • good coverage of the terrain
  • calculated risk-taking
Padel How can you finally know which side is right for you?

The player on the right: the one who organizes

On the right, the requirements are different. The player is expected to dictate the tempo, read the game, and create openings for their partner. The game revolves around defense, well-placed lobs, precise chip shots, and a strong tactical awareness. The right-hand player isn't necessarily looking to finish the ball; their focus is on putting themselves and their teammates in the best possible positions.

Profile typically observed:

  • consistency and patience
  • precision in the areas
  • defensive qualities
  • strong tactical sense

Re-evaluating one's certainties

These diagrams are helpful, but they aren't enough to automatically determine your side. A right-handed player who isn't very powerful but is an excellent defender might find more stability on the right. Conversely, a creative player, capable of sudden acceleration, might benefit from playing on the left, even if they aren't a natural striker.

Defining one's own style often requires taking a step back to reflect on one's game and temperament. To support this reflection, new initiatives are emerging.
The site Padel Now For example, it offers an online tool in the form of a ten-question questionnaire, allowing you to identify your complete profile:
Simulator: https://padel-now.co/tools/joueur-gauche-ou-droite

Beyond a simple left/right distribution, the tool highlights the characteristics of the player: pure attacker, strategist, or versatile profile capable of adapting.

Finding the right balance

These approaches have one thing in common: they encourage players to look beyond their dominant hand. They raise essential questions: Do I prefer to build or finish? Am I more effective on defense than on offense? What best serves my partner?

Experiment to find the right duo

Whether you're more of a finisher, a playmaker, or a hybrid player, the key remains the same: communication. Roles are defined as much by dialogue as by technical skills. Trying both sides over several matches, exchanging ideas with your partner, adjusting over time… that's often how pairs find their balance.

Perhaps the right question is no longer "Which side should I play on?", but "Which side am I most useful to the team on?". The answer isn't always what you think, and sometimes that's what helps a pair improve.

On the same subject

Tags