Backhand Side (Revés)
The left side of the padel court, typically played by the player with the stronger backhand or who is left-handed.
The backhand side — the left half of the padel court — is often called the "thinking" side. It demands technical solidity, patience, and the kind of backhand that doesn't crack when the pressure spikes.
What It Is
The backhand side is the left side of the court when facing the net. For a right-handed player, this means your backhand covers the center and your forehand handles balls out wide toward the left glass. The Spanish term "revés" literally means "backhand," and that tells the whole story — your backhand is going to get a workout here.
This is the side where rallies tend to develop. While the drive side often finishes points, the backhand side often builds them.
Why It Matters
Padel is a game of patterns, and one of the most common patterns in the sport is targeting the backhand side. Why? Because most players' backhands are weaker than their forehands, and smart opponents know it. The backhand-side player faces a constant barrage of balls aimed at exploiting that gap. If your backhand wobbles, opponents will camp on it all match long.
But here's the flip side: a player with a rock-solid backhand on the left side is an absolute nightmare to play against. When opponents can't find a weakness through the center, their entire game plan falls apart.
Who Plays Here
Traditionally, the backhand side goes to the player with the more consistent, reliable game — often the "builder" of the pair rather than the "finisher." This player needs a strong backhand volley for net exchanges, comfort playing balls off the left side glass, and the patience to construct points rather than force them.
Right-handers with a punishing two-handed backhand love this side. You'll also see left-handed players here, which creates an interesting dynamic — their forehand covers the center, giving the pair "double forehand" coverage in the middle.
Strategic Considerations
From the backhand side, glass play becomes your best friend. Balls off the left glass are a daily occurrence, and reading the angle separates good backhand-side players from great ones. At the net, you need quick hands on backhand volleys and the discipline to let center balls go when they belong to your partner.
The backhand side absorbs pressure. You're the wall that opponents keep hitting into — stay patient, stay solid, and wait for the opening your partner can exploit.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Terms
Back Position (Posición de Fondo)
The defensive position near the back wall where players work to regain the net.
Drive Side (Derecha)
The right side of the padel court, typically played by the player whose forehand faces the center.
Net Position (Posición de Red)
The attacking position near the net where players control the point with volleys and overheads.
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