Serve Bounce Height Rule

The padel serve has specific bounce-height requirements that distinguish it from tennis. After striking the underarm serve, the ball must bounce once within the opponent's service box (also called the service court). The ball cannot be volleyed directly over the net. Once the ball has bounced in the service box, it may then pass over the net at any height. However, the serve is a fault if the ball does not bounce in the service box, bounces outside the service box, or bounces higher than the server's waist before passing the net. These regulations ensure fair, controlled serves and prevent power-serving dominance. The bounce-height rule specifically limits the advantage aggressive servers might gain. Players must practice consistent serve placement to bounce the ball in the service box. The one-bounce requirement adds a unique element to padel serves compared to tennis.