Are you tired of losing points every time the ball goes into the corner? Do you feel frustrated because you struggle with the double glass? Whether you're a seasoned player or a tennis player transitioning to padel, this guide will help you master the corner and improve your game. Here, we will provide you with the best tips for playing off the double glass and some golden rules to ensure you can handle every ball that gets into the corner.
The first step in mastering the corner is to understand the type of double glass situation you are facing. Your foot positioning is crucial in this regard. When your opponent is playing, point your feet towards them. This positioning will help you determine how to react when the ball approaches the corner:
Far from Right Foot: If the ball is far from your right foot, it will only hit one glass. Move away and play in front of you.
Close to Right Foot: If the ball is close to your right foot, it will hit the back glass. Move away and touch it in front of you.
Next to Left Foot: If the ball is near your left foot, it will hit the side and back glass. This is referred to as open double glass.
When the ball approaches the corner, preparation is key. If the ball is far away, you can play an easy shot. Make sure to bring your racket back as soon as you see the ball heading towards the glass. Always aim to hit the ball when it is in front of you, not behind.
When the ball is close to your right foot or between your legs, it’s essential to divide the glass into two parts:
First Half of the Panel: If the ball touches this part, it will hit the back glass and quickly move around. Move away from your left foot and prepare to hit it in front of you.
Second Half of the Panel: If the ball touches this part, it will hit both panels and get trapped in the corner. In this case, approach the corner quickly to hit the ball.
Avoid rotating unless the ball is easy to play. Instead, move away from your left foot and approach the ball directly.
This scenario is often the most challenging. When the ball is close to your left foot:
Defend with Backhand: It’s generally recommended to defend this shot with a backhand. Prepare your racket and hit when the ball is in front of you.
Rotating: If the ball is tricky and you’re unsure of its trajectory, you can rotate. However, ensure you are quick and get close to the glass to make the shot easier.
When the ball goes far from your left foot:
Easy Shot: If it hits the first panel, prepare your racket before the ball enters the glass and wait for it to come out before playing.
To effectively handle the challenges of double glass, keep these golden rules in mind:
Active Footwork: Always maintain active footwork when the ball enters the corner. Adjust your position quickly with small steps rather than long strides.
Backhand Defense: On the left side of the court, defend the corner primarily with your backhand. Rotate only when necessary.
Early Preparation: Bring your racket back before the ball enters the corner. This will give you enough time to react.
Flat Shots: Aim to hit all shots off the double glass flat. Avoid topspin or slice unless the ball is high.
Down the Line: When faced with tricky shots, it’s often easier to play down the line rather than to the center or cross-court.
By applying these tips and golden rules, you will significantly improve your ability to handle the double glass in padel. Practice these strategies in your next game and see how they enhance your performance. Remember to share this knowledge with your padel partner who may also struggle with the double glass, and together, you can win more games!