Playing against a left-handed player in padel can feel like a completely different match. Their shots come with reversed spins, unusual angles, and natural positioning that changes the rhythm of the game. To play effectively, you need to adapt your tactics and understand their habits. Let’s break it down together.
Lefties almost always play on the right side
Left-handed players almost always play on the right side of the court because it allows them to use their forehand in the middle. This setup is the natural construction for a pair: a right-handed player on the left and a left-handed player on the right. This formation, with two forehands in the middle—the strongest shot in padel—maximizes pressure on the opponents and attacking opportunities.
Some of the best examples include the current number one men’s pair Coello and Tapia, the top women’s duo Josemaria and Sanchez, and the legendary team Belasteguin and Diaz, who dominated the padel world for 14 years playing this exact way.
Now you know it’s mainly the right-sided player who will suffer having a lefty in his cross-court!
Use the "zone of divorce" wisely
When playing against a lefty, you should avoid giving them too many balls in the center since they are very comfortable controlling that area. This central zone is often where many points are decided, and overloading it can allow them to easily reset the rally.
But on the other hand, this middle space is sometimes called the "zone of divorce" because when teams lack experience or chemistry, neither player is quite sure who should take the ball, creating hesitation.
You can use this hesitation to your advantage, as it often leads to suboptimal positioning and opens opportunities for you to take control of the rally.
Beware of reversed spins and adjust your positioning
Lefties generate spins that behave differently from right-handed players. Their topspin forehand, especially when directed toward the glass, bounces unpredictably, making timing and positioning more challenging.
To counter this, focus on reading the spin early and adjusting your footwork and racket angle accordingly. This will help you stay in control rather than constantly reacting late.
Attack their weaker side
Left-handed players often have an attacking mindset. Their natural positioning and forehand strength in the middle encourage them to take control of points early. Expect a lefty to push forward, take the net, and impose pressure rather than stay passive or purely defensive.
On the other hand, the backhand side of a lefty, usually directed to their right leg, is often less comfortable. By targeting this area with deep shots, you can force awkward returns and reduce their attacking options. This strategy breaks their rhythm and opens opportunities for you to finish points.
Conclusion
Playing against a lefty requires a different mindset and tactical adaptation to their unique style. Understanding their preferred positioning, spins, and shot tendencies, can turn their strengths into weaknesses and give you the advantage.