Playing left or right in padel: how to choose
By the EsoPadel team · updated on October 16, 2026 · 3 min read
In padel, each player of the pair keeps one side of the court for the whole match. The right-side player builds the play and brings consistency; the left-side player is often the one who finishes points, with more smashes and attacking shots. For a right-hander, the left side puts the forehand in the middle of the court, which is why the more attacking player often plays there. The right choice depends on your game, your hand and your partner.
Why sides matter
Many balls go down the middle of the court. The player who takes them on the forehand has an advantage. For two right-handers, the left-side player covers the middle with the forehand, so they take many decisive balls. The right-side player plays more backhands in the middle and more balls along the glass.
The right-side player
Sometimes called the "builder". Their qualities: - consistency: few errors, they set up the points; - lobs and defence: they put the pair back in position when under pressure; - wall play: they master balls coming off the glass on the right; - patience: they wait for the right ball for their partner. It is often the best side to start on: it requires less power and teaches positioning basics.
The left-side player
Often called the "finisher". Their qualities: - smash power: they end points on high balls; - forehand in the middle for a right-hander; - risk-taking: they look to accelerate when the chance comes; - overhead game: bandeja, víbora, smash out of the court. They must also defend well: a left-side player who only attacks puts the pair in danger.
What if you are left-handed?
A left-hander on the right side has the forehand in the middle: that is often the set-up sought by a right-hander and left-hander pair, which covers the middle with forehands on both sides. But nothing is fixed: a very attacking left-hander can also play on the left.
How to choose your side
1. Look at your strengths. Consistent and defensive: right. Powerful and attacking: left. 2. Try both. In friendly games, play one set on each side and see where you make the fewest errors. 3. Think about your partner. The pair matters more than each player: two left-side players together will have to decide who moves. 4. Stick to your side. Once found, always playing the same side helps you improve and build a steady pair. On EsoPadel, you set your preferred side on your profile (left, right or both). The partner search takes it into account to suggest complementary players: a right-side player with a left-side player.
Beginner mistakes
- Changing side every game: it is hard to build habits. - Wanting to finish everything on the left: the best smasher is not always the best choice if their defence is weak. - Not communicating: whatever the side, calling "mine" or "yours" avoids losing balls in the middle.
Frequently asked questions
Which side should a padel beginner play? The right side is often recommended: it requires more consistency than power and teaches positioning. Is the left-side player the best player of the pair? Not necessarily. They take more decisive balls, but a pair wins first through complementarity. Should a left-hander play on the right? Often, because they then cover the middle with the forehand, but it depends on their game. Can you change sides during a match? Pairs almost always keep the same side for the whole match: that is how they build their habits.