How to Deal with Lobs in Padel: Mastering the Net Defense

One of the biggest challenges in padel is dealing with lobs. Many players struggle with the bandeja because they get caught up focusing too much on the technique of the shot. What they often forget is the purpose of the bandeja in the first place.

When you receive a lob, you are actually defending your net position. How you handle that lob — and the shot you choose — directly affects whether you keep control of the net or lose it to your opponents. And keeping the net means a much higher chance of winning the point!

Let's break it down step-by-step.

Recognition: What to Look for First

When your opponent hits a lob, there are a few things you must recognize immediately:

• Your opponent comes underneath the ball (you should notice the racket angle and preparation)
• Immediately turn your body sideways to prepare the overhead
• Start moving back with small steps, keeping your balance
• Decide what type of overhead you are going to hit

The faster you recognize these signs, the faster and better you can position yourself to take control.

Type of Shot: Choosing the Right Overhead

Once you’ve read the lob, it's time to choose your shot.

You can often rule out certain shots based on your opponent’s position:

• Ball to your open side: Options include the bandeja, vibora, or an aggressive flat smash.
• Ball to your left side: Options include the gancho or a topspin smash.

Reading your opponent's court position is critical. If they are deep at the baseline, a controlled bandeja might be ideal. If they’re closer or you see a chance to finish, a more aggressive smash could be the right call.

Depth of the Lob: Another Crucial Factor

The depth of the lob also heavily influences your shot choice:

• Deep lob? Let it bounce, play it after the back glass (like a lob or bajada).
• Central lob? Ideal for a solid bandeja or a slightly more aggressive vibora.
• Short lob? Attack with a vibora, topspin smash, or flat smash.

By understanding the depth, you avoid forcing difficult shots and maximize your recovery and attacking potential.

Make the Decision: And Stick to It!

The final and most important part: make your decision and commit to it.

If you decide to hit a bandeja, stick with it. If you opt for a topspin smash, go for it. Changing your mind mid-swing leads to poor contact, bad positioning, and usually losing the net.

And after you hit the ball, don’t forget — recover your side of the court immediately to stay in control of the rally!

👉 Watch this video to see it all explained in action!

Final Thoughts

Recognising the lob early, choosing the right shot based on court position and depth, and committing to your decision are the keys to mastering net defense.

Get this right, and you’ll be the one dominating at the net, not scrambling at the back.

Your game, your story—keep playing.