Drive Side (Derecha)
The right side of the padel court, typically played by the player whose forehand faces the center.
The drive side — the right side of the padel court — is where a huge number of points are decided, and choosing the right player for this position can make or break your partnership.
What It Is
In padel, the drive side refers to the right half of the court when you're facing the net. The name comes from "drive" (forehand), because the player standing here has their forehand aimed straight at the center of the court. That center zone is prime real estate in padel — most attacking balls pass through it — so having your strongest shot covering it is a massive advantage.
You'll also hear it called "derecha" in Spanish, which simply means "right" or "forehand." Same idea, different language.
Why It Matters
The center of the court is where the action lives. Volleys down the middle, returns up the gut, quick reflex exchanges at the net — the drive-side player handles a disproportionate share of these. That's why you want someone with a dependable, punchy forehand volley on this side. If your forehand freezes under pressure, the drive side will expose it fast.
At the professional level, the drive side is often considered the more "aggressive" position. The player here tends to be the one who finishes points with forehand volleys and overhead winners through the middle.
Who Plays Here
The classic setup: a right-handed player with a big forehand takes the drive side. But it's not that simple. Left-handed players are actually fantastic on the drive side because their forehand covers the center AND their backhand handles the wide balls toward the side glass — it's a natural fit. That's why you'll see plenty of left-handers camped on the right in pro padel.
The key question isn't "which hand do you write with?" but "where does your game work best?" Some right-handers with a monster backhand are better suited for the left side. Padel partnerships are puzzles, and the pieces need to fit.
Strategic Considerations
From the drive side, you cover roughly 55-60% of balls through the center with your forehand and defend wide balls to the right glass with your backhand. Communication with your partner is everything — "yours" and "mine" calls on those tricky center balls save friendships.
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.
Backhand Side (Revés)
The left side of the padel court, typically played by the player with the stronger backhand or who is left-handed.
Net Position (Posición de Red)
The attacking position near the net where players control the point with volleys and overheads.
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