The service in padel is often a source of debate… and the new FIP regulations aren't going to simplify things. In addition to the arrival of the Star Point, the International Federation of Padel clarified and strengthened certain key points related to the Service, especially on imaginary lines that the ball must no longer cross.

A detail that changes many situations on the field.

What the FIP rule specifically states (article 6 – point 2)

According to Article 6 of the official FIP regulations, at the time of service:

The ball must be struck after bouncing behind the corresponding service box, and must not exceed the service line or the center line, including their imaginary extensions, before being struck.

That's the fundamental point.

In practical terms, this means that the ball can no longer cross any line of the court, even imaginarily., before the impact of the racket:

  • neither the service line
  • neither the central line
  • nor their virtual extensions

If the ball crosses one of these lines before impact → service fee.

Why this service is becoming illegal

Until now, many players served slightly forward, sometimes beyond the center line or the service line "in the air", without this being really penalized.

With the new interpretation:

  • if the ball crosses the imaginary center line → fault
  • if it crosses the imaginary service line → fault
  • even if the bounce is good in the square → fault nonetheless

The rebound is no longer enough: The complete trajectory before impact is now taken into account..

A headache for the referees

On paper, the rule is clear.
In practice, its application is much less so.

To properly judge this type of foul, the referee should ideally be:

  • perfectly aligned with the extension of the line
  • with an almost impossible viewing angle from the central chair

From the middle of the field, Determining whether the ball crosses an imaginary line or not becomes extremely complicated, especially at actual speed.

This is a point that is likely to be debated.

Important reminder: feet are also affected

The new regulations also highlight an often overlooked point:

  • It is strictly forbidden to touch a line with your feet during service.
  • nor the service line
  • nor the central line
  • nor their extension

The server must remain entirely behind the line, with at least one foot on the ground, until the strike.

What if the receiver isn't ready? Be careful.

Another essential point to remember:

  • if the receiver is not ready, must absolutely not try to play the ball
  • if he moves, turns around or attempts a gesture → the point is considered played

For the serve to be replayed (let), the receiver must remain completely passive.

A simple rule… on paper

Fundamentally, the FIP seeks to:

  • standardize the service
  • avoid the advantages taken on the lines
  • make the gesture cleaner and more legible

But in practice, this service rule relies heavily on visual interpretation, which could quickly become a problem in a match.

Benjamin Dupouy

I discovered padel directly during a tournament, and frankly, I didn't really like it at first. But the second time, it was love at first sight, and since then, I haven't missed a single match. I'm even ready to stay up until 3am to watch a final of Premier Padel !

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