Padel / Rule 08
Return of service
FIP · 2026In short
The receiver must wait for the bounce and keep the order.
Bounce before returning
The designated receiver must allow the serve to bounce in the correct service box and return it before a second ground bounce. If the serve touches either receiving player or their racket before bouncing, the serving pair wins the point.
Receiving order
Choose the first receiver in the opening receiving game of each set. Partners then receive alternately, keeping that order throughout the set and tie-break. If they receive out of order, keep the altered order until that game or tie-break finishes, then return to the original positions for subsequent games.
Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Independent summaries of the FIP Rules of Padel 2026, applicable from 01.01.2026: all 17 rules plus equipment and conduct. References use physical PDF pages. Scoring format depends on the competition.
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