Return of serve: tactics from the left side
Key takeaway from our Guru
How should I return a serve from the left side when it hits the glass?
Do not lunge to hit the ball before it reaches the glass. Give yourself space, allow the ball to rebound, and use a simple, compact block to return it toward the server's feet.
What this lesson covers
The primary objective for any return is consistency. A mistake on the return gifts a point to the opponents, so getting the ball into play takes precedence over aggressive shot selection. When receiving an easy serve, the goal is to gain the net position immediately. A lob over the opponents is the preferred option, though a chiquita played to the server's feet also creates an opportunity to move forward.
Facing difficult serves against the glass requires adjusting based on skill level. Low intermediate players should prioritize getting the ball back in play, often using a lob if hitting to the feet feels too risky. High intermediate players should focus on a simple, compact block directed back toward the server, aiming for waist height or lower to neutralize the incoming pace. Advanced players can reintroduce the lob as a tactical choice even against high-quality serves. Regardless of level, players must allow the ball to come off the glass rather than lunging to hit it early. Practice with a partner or ball machine helps build the confidence needed to handle rebounds accurately.
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Original video
Added on Apr 2, 2026
IMPROVE Your RETURNS From the LEFT! | ThePadelSchool.com
Description
The RETURN OF SERVE can be TRICKY, particularly on the left hand side as it’s often your BACKHAND with THE GLASS! In this video, we’re going to explain what you should do on an EASY SERVE and what you should do with a DIFFICULT SERVE AGAINST THE GLASS at the different levels YOU play at! For our *EXCLUSIVE MEMBERS*, we’ll also cover how to DEFEND on a very difficult SLICE SERVE. If you’d like to see the extended version - We do have a *7-DAY FREE TRIAL* on our online platform with a bunch of other exclusive content as well! *SIGN UP NOW* and don't miss out on an opportunity to IMPROVE YOUR GAME! 💻 Website: https://www.thepadelschool.com 🔍 Check out our podcast episodes at: https://podcast.thepadelschool.com 🔍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepadelschool 🔍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepadelschool 🔍 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepadelschool *Chapters* 00:00 Intro 00:14 Return Objective 00:30 Easy Serve 01:10 Difficult Serve - Low Intermediate 02:27 Difficult Serve - High Intermediate 03:13 Difficult Serve - Advanced 03:48 Using the Glass 04:30 Defending a Slice Serve #padelgame #padel #padelpractice #padeltechnique #padeltraining #padelskills #padeltennis #padeltips *Disclaimer:* We do not accept any liability for any loss or damage which is incurred by you acting or not acting as a result of listening to any of our publications. For all videos on my channel: This information is for general & educational purposes only. Always consult with an attorney, CPA, or financial professional for advice based on your specific situation. *Copyright Disclaimer:* Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favour of fair use © The Padel School
Good for
Skill level
Beginner, Intermediate, High Intermediate, Advanced, High Advanced
Court position
Left, Backcourt
Play style
Tactical
Secondary shot
Lob
Keywords
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