Short answer: a standard padel court is 20 metres long and 10 metres wide, enclosed by walls and mesh, with a net across the middle. The compact size, doubles format and walls are what make padel rallies feel social, fast and tactical.
Last checked: 25 June 2026. For official construction and competition requirements, use current International Padel Federation documents.
Standard dimensions
The recognised full-size padel court is 20m by 10m. It is divided by a net, with service lines and boxes on each side. The back and side walls form part of the court structure and are used during rallies after the ball has bounced.
Official reference: FIP official documents.
Layout in plain English
| Part | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Net | Divides teams and shapes volleys |
| Service boxes | Serve must land diagonally |
| Back glass | Creates defensive rebounds |
| Side walls/mesh | Add angles and tactical variation |
| Openings/doors | Allow entry and, in some formats, outside play |
Why the court feels smaller than tennis
Padel is compact, but the walls make it play bigger tactically. A ball that would be gone in tennis can rebound and continue. This lets beginners rally sooner and gives advanced players more defensive options.
Net and service boxes
Serves are underarm and diagonal. The server bounces the ball before striking it below waist height. Because the serve is less dominant than tennis, the court layout encourages rallies rather than aces.
Related guide: how to serve in padel.
Singles courts
Singles padel courts exist in some places, but standard padel is doubles on the full 20m by 10m court. Playing singles on a doubles court can be tiring and tactically different.
Related guide: can you play singles padel?.
What beginners should notice
- The court rewards pairs moving together.
- The back glass gives extra time if you use it well.
- The net position is powerful but must be earned.
- Lobs are essential because the court is compact.
- Footwork matters more than raw speed.
Building context
For venues, dimensions are only one part of the build. Space around courts, lighting, drainage, surface, acoustic treatment and planning constraints all matter.
Related guide: building a padel court.
Bottom line
A padel court is small enough for social doubles but complex enough to create deep tactics. The official dimensions explain why the game is accessible: less open space than tennis, more playable rebounds than most net sports and enough structure for fast improvement.
FAQ
Is a padel court smaller than a tennis court?
Yes, substantially smaller than a full tennis court.
Why are padel courts enclosed?
The walls are part of the rally and define the sport.
Can any tennis court become a padel court?
Not without specialist construction, walls, surface and planning considerations.
