Padel vs Squash

Definition

Padel and squash are both racket sports with enclosed courts, but with major differences. Squash is singles-focused, played on smaller enclosed courts with walls that are integral to play (must bounce off). Squash scoring is different (to 11 or 15 points), and it's a more individually demanding sport. Padel is doubles-focused on larger courts with transparent walls, underhand serves, and unique pared shots. Squash emphasizes sustained individual effort and fitness, while padel emphasizes teamwork and tactical positioning. The sports attract different player preferences—squash appeals to individual competition seekers, padel to team-oriented players.