The Shot That Controls the Match
In padel, the lob is not a defensive bailout — it’s a tactical weapon. Players who master lobs control positioning, tempo, and momentum.
Most points are decided not by winners, but by who wins the net battle — and lobs decide that battle.
Why the Lob Is So Powerful
A good lob:
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Forces opponents off the net
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Buys time to advance forward
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Breaks opponent rhythm
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Creates attacking opportunities
Even average players become dangerous with consistent lobs.
When to Lob in Padel
The best moments to lob:
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When opponents are tight to the net
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After defending from the back glass
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When under pressure
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To reset a losing rally
Lobbing randomly doesn’t work — intentional lobbing does.
Common Lob Mistakes
Many players:
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Lob too short
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Lob straight instead of cross-court
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Overuse lobs when unnecessary
Height and placement matter more than power.
How to Practice Better Lobs
Focus on:
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Net clearance
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Deep placement
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Consistent height
A reliable lob turns defense into offense instantly.
Final Thoughts
If you only improve one shot in padel, make it the lob. It wins more points than smashes for most players.