Return Low at the Net Player's Feet
The Situation
You are returning serve and the server's partner stands at the net ready to intercept.
What To Do
Use slice to keep the return low and aim it directly at the feet of the net player. Pace is less important than height — keep it below net tape level.
Why It Works
According to The Padel School, forcing a net player to volley from below the net tape is the primary goal of the return. Any ball they must lift gives you time to advance and removes their attacking angle entirely.
Court Positioning
Receiver (deuce side) → sliced return travels low cross-court toward net player's feet. Ball stays below net height throughout flight. Receiver begins moving forward.
Court View
Bird's-eye view — attacking net position
Skill Level
Serve to the Body to Jam the Returner
You are serving and want a reliable, high-percentage target that makes the return difficult.
Both Returners Advance After the Return
You have returned serve and your partner is already at the net. You are standing on the baseline.
Lob the Return Over the Net Player
The net player is aggressive and intercepts your cross-court returns consistently.