The drive
A firm, fairly flat groundstroke that travels low and direct, used to push the other pair back or force a weak volley. In Spanish, drive also means the forehand and the player on the right side of the court.
When to play it
When the ball sits up around waist height and the net players are not set. Low through the middle or at the feet of a player who is moving in. To keep the other pair pinned back when they are slow to come forward.
How to play it
Turn side on early and take a compact backswing. Make contact in front of you at hip height with a firm wrist and a flat face. Aim low over the net, then recover your position.
Common mistakes
Driving every ball, including low ones that should be lifted. Hitting so long that the ball strikes their back glass before it bounces, which loses the point. A big swing that sacrifices control for pace.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the drive legal in padel?
Legal under Rule 14 b. The ball must bounce in their court first: if it hits their walls or fence on the full, you lose the point under Rule 13 g.