Kicking topspin
A ball with strong forward spin that dips over the net and kicks up and forward after the bounce, often coming off the glass faster than expected.
When to play it
On a high ball with time to brush up the back of it. On a lob that needs to dip in and run away after the bounce. Against defenders who wait for a slow rebound off the glass.
How to play it
Start the racket below the ball and brush up the back of it. Finish high, over the shoulder. Aim with margin over the net: the spin brings it down.
Common mistakes
Using topspin on very low balls, where it is hard to clear the net. Hitting through rather than up, so there is little spin.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the kicking topspin legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 14: spin makes no difference to the rules.