Short-angle backhand
A sharp diagonal backhand that lands short and runs towards the side, pulling the opponent wide.
When to play it
When the opponent opposite is deep and the side is open. To set up the next shot.
How to play it
Contact well in front of you. Slice or brush across the ball so it lands short. Aim for the side of the service box.
Common mistakes
Hitting the angle too firmly so it carries. Trying it from a defensive position.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the short-angle backhand legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 12.3: play the ball after one bounce, off the glass if you like, before it bounces again. It must reach the opponents' court, directly or off your own walls (Rule 14.1b), and must not hit their walls or fence first (Rule 13.1g). After the bounce it may run into their side glass or fence (Rule 14.1c).