Welcome to Singapore's fastest-growing racquet sport! This guide will help you get started, from understanding the basics to booking your first game.
Padel (also called padel tennis) is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It's played on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court, with walls that are part of the game. Think of it as tennis meets squash, but way more social and beginner-friendly!
20m x 10m enclosed court with glass and mesh walls
Always played in doubles (2v2) for maximum social fun
Pick up the basics in one session, master it over time
| Aspect | Padel | Tennis |
|---|---|---|
| Court Size | 20m x 10m (enclosed) | 23.77m x 10.97m (open) |
| Racquet | Solid paddle, no strings | Stringed racquet |
| Serve | Underhand, below waist | Overhand, above head |
| Walls | ✅ Ball can bounce off walls (in play) | ❌ No walls |
| Learning Curve | Easy - playable in 1 session | Steep - takes months to rally |
| Intensity | Moderate - shorter court | High - lots of running |
| Social Aspect | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very social | ⭐⭐⭐ Moderately social |
| Price (SG) | $60-120/hr (split 4 ways) | $30-80/hr (split 2 ways) |
💡 Bottom line: Padel is more forgiving, more social, and way easier to pick up than tennis!
Unlike tennis, you serve underhand below your waist. Bounce the ball once, then hit it diagonally across to the opposite service box. No power needed - just get it in!
The ball CAN bounce off the walls and stay in play (after bouncing on the ground first). This adds a strategic element - you can use the walls to set up angles and defensive shots.
Padel is designed as a social sport. You'll always play with a partner against another pair. Communication and teamwork are key - cover your side, support your partner!
15, 30, 40, game. First to 6 games wins the set (with a 2-game lead). Most matches are best of 3 sets, though casual games might be just 1 set.
No joke - most people are hooked after their first session. The learning curve is gentle, the rallies are fun, and the social vibe is unmatched. Give it one try!
💡 Pro tip:
Don't buy a racquet until you've played 3-5 times and know your style. Most venues have quality rentals!
Prime Padel Academy
Grand Copthorne Waterfront
Kids programs (ages 3-16), group classes, private coaching
📞 8189 7232
House of Padel
Fort Canning
Beginner packages, intermediate training, tournament prep
Check website for schedule
Ricochet Padel Clinics
Sentosa & Laguna
Weekend clinics, private lessons with pro coaches
📞 8200 9417
Americano Socials
Weekly rotating-partner events - perfect for beginners! Meet players, learn by playing, super friendly vibe.
View schedule →WhatsApp Groups
Join beginner-friendly groups to find practice partners, ask questions, and get court recommendations.
Join groups →r/PadelSingapore
Reddit community with tips, partner matching, and newcomer advice. Post your questions!
Visit subreddit →❌ Standing Too Far Back
Fix: Move up to the service line after your team serves. Control the net!
❌ Overhand Serves
Fix: Serves MUST be underhand below the waist. It's a fault otherwise!
❌ Hitting Too Hard
Fix: Padel is about placement, not power. Aim for consistency and angles.
❌ Ignoring Your Partner
Fix: Communicate! Call "Mine!" or "Yours!" on every ball. Teamwork wins games.
❌ Wrong Shoes (Outdoor/Running Shoes)
Fix: Use indoor court shoes with non-marking soles. Prevents slipping and protects courts.
Here's your step-by-step action plan:
Find 3 Friends (or use partner-matching)
Padel is 2v2. Grab friends or join an Americano to meet players.
Pick a Beginner-Friendly Venue
Start with Play! Padel Bedok, Singpadel, or Ricochet (friendly staff, rental gear available).
Book Your Court
Use Playtomic app or venue websites. Weekday mornings are cheapest ($60-80/hr split 4 ways!).
Show Up & Have Fun!
Bring water, wear court shoes, rent a racquet. Play, laugh, and get hooked!
Courts cost $60-120/hour depending on location and time. Split 4 ways, that's $15-30/person/hour. Racquet rental is $5-10 (sometimes free with booking).
Nope! Padel is less intense than tennis. The smaller court means less running. Players of all fitness levels enjoy it.
Technically yes, but padel is designed for doubles. Most courts only offer 2v2 play. If you're solo, join a WhatsApp group or Americano to find partners!
Casual games: 60-90 minutes. Competitive matches (best of 3 sets): 1.5-2 hours. Most bookings are 90 minutes.
Yes! Singapore grew from 1 operator in 2021 to 16 in 2025, with 40+ courts. It's exploding in popularity, especially among young professionals.
You're about to join thousands of Singaporeans who are obsessed with this sport. See you on the court!