Nets and Lets are common jargon in Racket sports but rules books do not always explain what they mean. Read more below.
What is “Net” service:
When the serve hits the net but lands correctly, it will be a let and must be repeated.
The service will be “net” if:
- The ball served touches the net or the supporting posts and then landed correctly in the receiver’s service box, as long as it does not touch the metallic fence before the second bounce.
- The ball after touching the net or posts (if these are within the game area) hits any player or article carried or worn.
Unlike tennis, a serve hitting the net is not automatically a fault. As long as the ball lands within the correct service box (including the allowed bounce off the glass wall), the serve will be repeated.
However, in regular rallies when the ball hits the net and lands correctly, the game continues.
The outcome of a net service is called a let, meaning the serve must be replayed with no penalty to the server.
What is a LET in Padel?
When a Service is labeled “LET,” it means it has to be repeated. If play is interrupted or conditions are unfair, the point is replayed.
A let in padel happens when something outside the players’ control interferes with the serve, similar to other racket sports.
The service will be repeated (let) if:
- The ball is served when the receiver is not ready and has made it clear in time.
- If a let (e.g., due to an external interruption or receiver not being ready) occurs on the first serve, the entire point restarts.
- If the “net” or “let” is on the second serve, the server will have only the right to repeat the second serve.
Bonus Question:
Question: I put the ball in play, it touches the net and the first bounce is in the receiver’s box, with the second bounce the ball goes out of court through the opening. Is this “let” or fault?
Answer: A “let” if the ball can be played outside the court. If not it is a fault.
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