A complete guide to scoring in padel. If you’re new to padel, the scoring system can seem confusing at first, but once you understand it, it’s straightforward. Padel uses the same scoring system as tennis, so if you’ve ever watched or played tennis, you’re already most of the way there.
Here’s a breakdown of how padel scoring works.
How does Padel scoring work: Points
Each game is scored using the following sequence:
- Love = 0 points
- 15 = 1 point won
- 30 = 2 points won
- 40 = 3 points won
- Game = 4 points won (provided you’re at least two points ahead)
The first pair to win four points wins the game but if both pairs reach 40, it’s called deuce.
How does Padel scoring work: Deuce and Advantage
When both pairs reach 40-40, the score is called deuce. From deuce:
- The next pair to win a point gains the advantage
- If the pair with the advantage wins the next point, they win the game
- If the pair without the advantage wins the point, the score returns to deuce
This continues until one pair wins two consecutive points from deuce.
In casual and club play, some groups use a golden point rule instead — a single deciding point played at deuce, often with the receiving pair choosing which side the serve comes from. This speeds up the game significantly and is increasingly common at recreational level.
How does Padel scoring work: Games and Sets
Points make up games. Games make up sets.
- The first pair to win six games wins the set
- You must win by at least two games, so if the score reaches 5-5, play continues to 7-5
- If the score reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is played
How does Padel scoring work: The Tiebreak
A tiebreak is a special game played when the set reaches 6-6. The rules are:
- Points are counted numerically — 1, 2, 3 — rather than 15, 30, 40
- The first pair to reach 7 points wins the tiebreak, provided they lead by at least two points
- If the score reaches 6-6 in the tiebreak, play continues until one pair leads by two
The pair that wins the tiebreak wins the set 7-6.
Serving in the tiebreak alternates differently to normal games, one player serves the first point, then service alternates every two points.
How does Padel scoring work: Matches
Most padel matches are played as best of three sets. The first pair to win two sets wins the match.
In professional padel, matches follow the same format. The third set, if required, is often decided by a super tiebreak, first to 10 points rather than a full set, to keep matches at a manageable length.
How does Padel scoring work: Who Serves First?
At the start of the match, a coin toss or racket spin determines which pair serves first. The serving pair also chooses which end of the court to start on.
Service alternates between pairs after each game. Within each game, the same player continues serving until the game is complete — partners do not alternate serves within a single game.
How does Padel scoring work: Calling the Score
In padel, the server calls the score before each point , server’s score first. So if the serving pair has won two points and the receiving pair one, the server calls “30-15”.
At deuce, the server calls “deuce”. If the serving pair gains the advantage, they call “advantage server”. If the receiving pair gains it, “advantage receiver”.
Quick Reference
| Situation | Score Called |
|---|---|
| No points won | Love |
| 1 point won | 15 |
| 2 points won | 30 |
| 3 points won | 40 |
| Both at 40 | Deuce |
| One point ahead from deuce | Advantage |
| 6 games each | Tiebreak |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is padel scoring the same as tennis?
Yes — padel uses identical scoring to tennis. Points, games, sets, and tiebreaks all work the same way.
What is a golden point in padel?
A golden point is a single deciding point played at deuce instead of continuing until one pair wins by two points. It’s used in some professional tournaments and casual play to speed up matches.
How long does a padel match last?
A typical club match lasts 60-90 minutes. Competitive matches can run longer depending on how close the sets are.
Can you win a set 6-0 in padel?
Yes — if one pair dominates completely, a 6-0 set is possible and valid.
What happens if it rains during a padel match?
Most padel courts in the UK are outdoors without cover. If play is interrupted, the match is typically paused and resumed from the same score when conditions allow.
Now you know how the scoring works, make sure you’ve got the right kit for the court. Check out our guides to the best padel rackets for beginners, best padel shoes for men, and best padel balls.