Stretch return
A defensive shot played at full reach, when the ball is nearly past you. The aim is not to win the point, only to get the ball back high and safe.
When to play it
When a wide ball or a sharp angle pulls you to the edge of your reach. When you are late and the glass will not give you a second chance.
How to play it
Take a long last step towards the ball and bend your front knee. Use a short swing with an open face to lift the ball. Send it high to the middle, then push off your front foot back into position.
Common mistakes
Trying to hit a winner from full stretch. Reaching with the arm alone, so you lose balance and cannot recover. Hitting it flat and low into the net.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the stretch return legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 14 b as long as you reach the ball before it bounces a second time; a second bounce loses the point under Rule 13 c.