Match analysis and simple tips: perfect for padel in tournament
The concept is simple: I show a match excerpt (15 minutes), Clément pauses whenever he wants, and we break down the choices, positioning, routines… everything that helps win points without needing to hit an x3 on every rally.
What I like about this format is that it stays concrete: we talk about balls in the middle, returns that give free points, lobs we don’t commit to, volleys we ‘block’ without realizing it… In short, real-life padel.
- A very clear focus on the return of serve (and why it can ruin a match for you without you realizing it)
- Micro-adjustments in positioning that change everything (a step to the right, a step back… and you defend better)
- The tricky subject: ego, stress, and how to stay clear-headed when things spiral out of control
- A no-nonsense discussion about training: what’s truly useful… and what makes you waste time
Clément Geens, ‘Belgian No. 1’: why his eye is invaluable
Clément has a profile that resonates with many players here: strong athletic background, transition to padel, and accelerated progress thanks to a very ‘court-focused’ approach. Today, he is No. 1 in Belgium and ranked 92nd in the FIP ranking as I write these lines.
In the interview, he talks about his transition (hockey, tennis, then padel), the importance of accepting to ‘start from scratch,’ and what made him progress quickly: humility, playing volume, and a desire to learn against everyone.
What we can take away from the interview
1) The return: no need to be heroic, just reliable
The part that resonated most with me: when Clément emphasizes the ‘simple’ return. Not the return winner. Not the show return. Just: return low, return deep, and start the rally. And above all, avoid starting a game by giving away 1 or 2 free points… because then you’re chasing the score.
We also talk about serves towards the side glass: when to take it, when to cut it short, and how to reduce the ‘wrist’ movements that make the ball go out. This is typically the kind of detail that takes you from a stressful match to a controlled match.
2) Positioning: the real difference at our levels
There’s a moment when he points out a simple thing to me: my position after a lob. I’m a bit too central, a bit too far forward… and as a result, defense becomes complicated. Nothing spectacular. But that’s exactly padel: you sometimes lose the point before even hitting.
And then there’s the stinging reminder (which I know all too well): playing on your heels, jumping on certain high balls, hitting the bandeja while retreating… We laugh about it, but if you want to be more consistent, it’s a priority area.
3) Consistency, enjoyment, discipline: the trio that wins tournaments
In the interview, Clément says something I find very true: at many amateur levels, you win mostly because you give away fewer points. Not because you hit impossible shots. He emphasizes consistency, tempo management, and the trap of wanting to play too fast.
And he also brings up an underrated topic: enjoyment. Padel is addictive, and when you start playing 4-5 times a week, you can quickly get tense, compare yourself, get frustrated… when in fact, you play better when you relax.
What he observes first in a player
When he talks about reading an opponent, Clément makes an interesting distinction: in a ‘competitive level’ match, he quickly looks at the smash ability (to know where to lob… and where to avoid). In coaching, he first observes how the person moves, positions themselves, uses their body before even talking about pure technique.
This ties into another debate we address: the obsession with attack (vibora, bandeja, x3…) when, sometimes, you don’t even know how to properly defend a ball that hits two walls. And that, of course… makes you think.
My ‘top 1000’ goal: the concrete advice that keeps coming back
I also ask him a very personal question: my ranking goal. His answer is simple: if you give yourself a short timeframe, you need to be able to play often… so protect your body. Lifestyle, a bit of physical preparation, avoiding injuries, and continuing to take lessons to consolidate a strong foundation.
No magic recipe. Just hard work, volume, and a form of intelligent persistence. And frankly, hearing that from a player who plays at the top level is motivating.
In recap
- The return of serve alone can make you lose a match if you offer free points
- Better positioning makes defense easier (and your consistency instantly improves)
- Before dreaming of ‘perfect shots,’ secure the basics: movement, zones, discipline
- Mindset and partner relationship matter: communicate, adapt, stay constructive
- Padel is played better when you maintain enjoyment and a simple routine
Further Reading
- Clément Geens’ FIP Profile
- National ranking (Padel Belgium)
- Official Premier Padel ranking
- And if certain terms confuse you (bandeja, vibora, chiquita…), we have an in-house guide: Mastering the vocabulary and names of all padel shots
And if you want to discover my racket reviews, other interviews, and ‘tournaments + progress’ content, check out my channel: YouTube – Esteban Padel.
