Slice technique: compact swing and racket tilt

What this lesson covers

The slice in padel requires a compact swing rather than the long, high-to-low motion common in tennis. Players often struggle with the ball popping up because they start their swing too high or too far back. Instead, keep the racket close to the body and simply tilt the face before driving through the ball. This approach keeps the trajectory low and minimizes the rebound off the opponent's back glass.

Effective slicing relies on having enough time to set up. When the ball is fast or the player is rushed, slicing often leads to errors. The technique remains symmetrical for both forehand and backhand. On the forehand, keep elbows tucked and thrust the racket forward. On the backhand, focus on the tilt and a direct drive. Mastering this motion allows for better control on chiquita shots and makes it easier to disguise intentions, as the preparation remains identical regardless of the chosen shot.