Yes, you can play singles in padel but it’s not how the game was originally designed. Padel is known for its quick-fire rallies, creative angles, and social, doubles-focused energy. Everything about the game from the court dimensions to the tactics is optimised for two players per side. That said, if it’s just the two of you and you’re keen to play, singles padel absolutely has its place. In fact, it can be a brilliant way to work on movement, footwork, and precision.
Padel is played on a fully enclosed court that’s about one-third the size of a tennis court, with glass walls that keep the ball in play. The width of the standard court is 10 metres, and that space is intended to be shared by two players on each side. In doubles, you can work together to cover the angles, control the net, and manage the longer rallies that padel is known for. It’s a game that rewards communication and positioning as much as individual skill, which is part of why it’s such an accessible and enjoyable sport.
There are specific singles courts designed for one-on-one padel play, typically about six metres wide, and these are more commonly found in countries like Spain and Sweden. But in the UK, most venues (including ours at Padel Shift) use standard doubles courts, so singles games are more informal and often used as a tool for training rather than competition.
If you’ve only got two players and you want to hit, there are still great ways to enjoy the game. One option is to stand diagonally and play cross-court rallies - this helps maintain a sense of balance and simulates matchplay patterns. You can also focus on more controlled rallies, practicing shot accuracy, footwork, and shot recovery. Singles can be particularly useful for sharpening volleys, practising lobs, or working on defensive skills like playing off the glass. And if nothing else, it’s an excellent workout.
Singles padel can be a great way to warm up before a doubles match, especially if you want to get your movement dialled in or your timing sharp. It’s also a solid option if you’re new to the game and just want to build confidence hitting the ball without the pressure of matchplay. But if you’re looking for the full padel experience - the teamwork, strategy and social connection that makes the sport so addictive, doubles is where it truly comes alive.
We’re all about making padel as welcoming and accessible as possible. If you turn up with just two players, don’t worry - we always encourage people to get on court, hit a few balls (we suggest cross court) and make the most of their session. But when you’re ready to play the game as it was designed, we’d recommend joining our WhatsApp groups, coaching, social sessions or intros, where you can experience the true joy of doubles padel: high-energy rallies, partner dynamics, and lots of laughs along the way.
