Bandeja: cross-court
A sliced overhead from the net area, played to stay at the net rather than to win the point. Deep and low off their glass.
When to play it
On a lob you can reach from the net zone but cannot smash safely. To push the other pair back and keep your place at the net.
How to play it
Turn side on early and move back with short steps. Contact in front of the head, the racket face slightly open, slicing across the ball. Send it deep and low, then close back to the net.
Common mistakes
Hitting it like a smash and losing the net. Contact behind the head, which sends the ball long. Staying at the service line after the shot.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the bandeja legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 14b as long as the ball bounces in their court before it touches their glass or mesh (Rule 13g). Touching the net or posts with your racket or body during the point loses it (Rule 13a).