Service Line (Línea de Saque)

The service line might be the most important line you never think about in padel. It defines where every single point begins and quietly governs the geometry of the serve — the only shot in the game where you have complete control.

What It Is

The service line (línea de saque) runs parallel to the net, 6.95 meters back on each side of the court. Combined with the center service line that runs perpendicular from the net to the service line, it creates the two service boxes where every serve must land. The service line marks the back boundary of these boxes.

It's painted on the court surface like all other lines, typically in white and 5 cm wide. And yes, the line itself counts as "in" — any serve that clips the service line is good.

Server Positioning

Here's where the service line affects you directly: as the server, you must stand behind it. Both feet need to be between the service line and the back wall, on the correct side of the center line. At least one foot must be touching the ground at the moment you strike the ball. Step on or over the service line before contact and you've committed a foot fault — that's a fault just like hitting the net or missing the box.

This might sound trivial, but it matters more in padel than in tennis because the padel serve is underhand. You're bouncing the ball and hitting it below waist height while standing relatively close to the back wall. Space is tight, and the temptation to creep forward for a better angle is real.

Strategic Considerations

The service line's position at 6.95 meters from the net creates service boxes that are shorter and wider than what tennis players are used to. This means the serve in padel is less about power and more about placement and spin. You're working with a compact target area, and the underhand serve limits how much pace you can generate.

Smart servers use the service line distance to their advantage. A deep serve that lands near the service line pushes the returner closer to the back wall, limiting their shot options. A short serve that barely clears the line can catch returners off guard and produce weak returns.

The Bigger Picture

The service line also serves as an informal landmark during rallies. Many coaches use it as a reference point for positioning — "stay behind the service line when defending" or "move forward past the service line to take the net." It's the invisible border between defensive and offensive territory on the padel court.