Foot Fault in Padel Serving

A foot fault in padel occurs when the server's feet violate baseline positioning rules during the serve. Specifically, the server must keep at least one foot completely behind the baseline (including the baseline itself) when striking the serve. If the server steps on the baseline or over it before contact, it's a foot fault. The fault applies regardless of whether the serve itself would be valid. Foot faults are strictly enforced in professional tournaments and tournaments with line judges. In casual play, they may be more relaxed unless a line judge is present. The server must be aware of baseline position during their service motion—many novice padel players commit foot faults by stepping forward during their serving stride. Foot faults are one of the most frequently called serving infractions. Players should practice their serve motion to ensure they stay behind the baseline until after the ball is struck.