Emergency racket save
A description of a last-ditch reach, not a technique coaches teach: an awkward stab at the ball with the racket still in your hand and the cord on your wrist.
When to play it
It happens when the ball is almost past you and any contact is better than none. A good ready position and split step make it much rarer.
How to play it
Get any part of the strings behind the ball. Keep the racket in your hand: never throw it. Aim up, so the ball has a chance of clearing the net.
Common mistakes
Throwing the racket at the ball, which loses the point. Letting go of the racket, which also loses the point.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the emergency racket save legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 14 if the ball clears the net and lands in. Rule 13 says the point is lost if the racket is thrown at the ball or dropped, and the racket section requires the cord round your wrist.