Topspin forehand
A forehand with forward spin that makes the ball dip after crossing the net and kick forward after the bounce.
When to play it
To dip the ball at the feet of net players. For passing shots that need to drop quickly.
How to play it
Start the swing below the ball and brush up and forward. Keep the wrist relaxed and finish high. Aim higher over the net than with a flat ball; the spin brings it down.
Common mistakes
Too much spin and no depth, so the ball lands short and sits up. Heavy topspin into the back glass, which comes back fast and high for the opponents.
Rules for this shot
Questions
Is the topspin forehand 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).