When Is It Legal To Hit Over The Net?
The regulations regarding the volley around the net may appear to be complicated. It can be unclear when it is permissible to reach over the net, and when it is not. Additionally, it may be unclear whether it is acceptable to touch the net and under what circumstances. This article aims to clarify these aspects and outline the specific instances where these actions are either allowed or prohibited.
Reaching Over the Net
It is permissible to reach over the net if the ball has already bounced on your side of the court, and you do not make contact with the net. For example, if your opponent hits a dropshot with a lot of spin and the ball bounces back to their side of the court, or if your opponent hits a powerful smash that returns to their side of the court. However, it is not allowed to reach over the net if the ball comes directly from your opponent, and it has not yet bounced on your side of the court. It is only allowed if the swing path goes over the net, but the contact point should be on your side.
Touching the Net
If you touch any part of the net, you immediately lose the point. Whether you touch it with your racket after hitting a smash, or with your feet, the point goes to your opponent. Also, touching the net post is not permitted.
Touching the Fence
If the ball goes out of the court and you try to reach it, you can touch the fence on your side of the court. However, if you touch your opponent's fence, you will lose the point. You are permitted to walk outside the court and hit the ball into your opponent's net, but only if you do not touch any part of the court.
Additional Rule
A rule that many players are not aware of is that if you hit a smash near the net, and the ball returns to your side, you can touch the net as soon as the ball crosses the line from your opponent's side to your side. This rule applies if your opponent is unable to reach the ball.
Sometimes it can be difficult to see if someone has touched the net. While the World Padel Tour has referees and video replays to assist with such matters, most games do not. Therefore, sportsmanship is essential in these cases. Be fair and inform your opponents if you have touched the net. If both teams cannot agree, it is advisable to play a let.