Scoring – A familiar system in a new context

The scoring is exactly the same as in tennis: 15-30-40-game system, 6 games to a set, and two won sets to a match. This system makes the transition easier for those who have previously played tennis and provides a unified international standard. The scoring originally comes from the French jeu de paume, where points were counted similarly to a clock's minute hand: 15-30-45-60. In tennis, this was later modified to 15-30-40-game, and padel adopted this tradition as well. This scoring system gives the game a special rhythm: every point is valuable, but contributes to the final result in different degrees.

Players must make strategic decisions about when to take risks and when to play it safe. Due to the complexity of the scoring, padel matches often take dramatic turns: a player can even lose several rallies and still win the game if they perform well on the key points. This type of scoring requires mental strength and strategic thinking, which is one of padel's most attractive aspects.

At a 40-40 score, an even situation arises. The winner of the next point gains the advantage, and if they win the following point as well, they take the game. This system speeds up the game and adds extra excitement to the decisive moments. Many recreational and some professional tournaments use the so-called "no-ad" or "golden point" system, where after 40-40, a single point decides the game. This rule significantly shortens matches and places even greater pressure on players at critical points. During the golden point, the receiving team can decide which side they want to receive the ball from, which allows for tactical considerations.

Thanks to the golden point system, padel matches rarely drag on too long, which suits a modern, time-saving lifestyle. Professional players handle pressure particularly well in these situations: they apply special mental techniques and routines to maintain their focus at decisive moments.

After every odd-numbered game, the pairs switch sides with each other. This has a practical reason: it balances out potential environmental factors (sun, wind) and also provides physical rest for the players. The ritual of switching sides is an important part of the game: it gives players a chance to briefly discuss tactics, take a sip of water, or wipe off sweat.

According to the rules, a maximum of 90 seconds is allowed for the side change, which is enough time for brief recovery but doesn't break the game's rhythm too much. During the side change, players generally move clockwise around the net, although this is not a strict rule.

It's interesting to observe how professional players use the side change time: some completely switch off and relax, while others actively communicate with their partner or coach, discussing strategy for the next game. The side change can be especially important on courts where there are significant differences between the two sides (for example, one side gets stronger sunlight, or one back wall behaves differently).