The 2025 padel season was marked by technical moves of rare audacity. From thunderous smashes to surgical drop shots, these actions defined the greatest moments. Here is the ranking of the ten shots that electrified the stands and redefined sporting excellence.
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The Top 10 Unforgettable Plays
1. The winning “par 4” smash
A shot of pure power, struck in such a way that the ball leaves the court after hitting the side glass, sealing a final under pressure.
In padel, the “par 4” is a marker of domination: it’s not just about hitting hard, but about finding the right height and angle that makes the ball “escape” outwards. When mastered, it turns an opportunity into a clear point, without dispute.
2. The disruptive chiquita
Executed from the back of the court when everyone expected a powerful shot, this low ball surprised opponents positioned at the net.
A “chiquita” refers to playing a soft, low ball, often at the opponents’ feet, to break the rhythm and force a difficult volley. It’s a transitional shot: it opens the door to the net, or creates hesitation that changes the rally in a fraction of a second.
3. The perfect bandeja
The ultimate demonstration of control, a perfectly sliced bandeja that bounces twice in the opponent’s service box with no possible return.
The bandeja is the “management” overhead: less of a finishing shot and more of a control tool to maintain the advantage at the net. Well-executed, it prevents counter-attacks, forces the opponent to defend low, and sets the point to the attacking duo’s tempo.
4. The acrobatic wall exit (salida de pared)
A frantic run and an in-extremis return after the rebound off the back glass, transforming a defensive situation into a spectacular winning point.
The “salida de pared” requires anticipation, footwork, and timing: too early, you hit off-balance; too late, the ball is already behind you. When successful, it reverses the power dynamic, because it returns an aggressive ball from a seemingly defensive position.
5. The víbora in the blind spot
A mix of power and side spin, this shot whips the ball into the inaccessible corner between the back glass and the side fence.
The víbora is distinguished by its spin and a tighter trajectory than a bandeja. It aims to create discomfort: a ball that zips, escaping towards the glass or the fence, forcing the opponent to defend by retreating or turning, which then opens up the court.
6. The offensive lob over the shoulder
A perfectly arched lob, falling into the alley after the bounce, used as a surprising offensive weapon.
The lob is not just a survival shot: at a high level, it’s used to regain the net or force an uncomfortable overhead. Placed over the shoulder or very deep, it forces a difficult decision and often sets up the next ball to attack.
7. The counter-bandeja on a fast ball
A phenomenal technical response to an opponent’s bandeja, returned with even more slice to reverse the momentum of a rally.
To respond with a counter-bandeja means accepting an already pressing ball and returning an even heavier one, while remaining stable. It’s a shot of resistance and placement: you need to absorb, direct, and maintain precision so that the opponent doesn’t get an “easy” volley.
8. The passing shot between the two players
A ball threaded with surgical precision to pass between two opponents at the net, finding the only available centimeter.
This passing shot is often the result of a micro-shift: half a second late, a poorly angled racket, a step too wide. It’s a cruel reminder of modern padel: the space exists, but you have to see it, and dare to take it at the right moment.
9. The off-balance volley
A winning return executed completely off-balance, sometimes after a slide, showing the players’ instinct and total commitment.
These volleys are more than just a spectacle: they reflect the importance of information gathering and an active hand. Even without perfect footwork, the best players keep their racket out front, “feel” the ball, and find a zone that hurts.
10. The tactical use of the fence
A deliberate rebound off the side fence to create an unpredictable trajectory and conclude a long rally, demonstrating sharp game intelligence.
The fence (the “reja”) can become an ally: by deliberately aiming for this area, you get atypical bounces and trajectories that are difficult to read. It’s a pure padel shot: less spectacular in terms of power than in its concept, and the trouble it creates.
Analysis of Shot Categories
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Finishing | The “par 4” smash is the shot that closes out the point when the opportunity is perfect. |
| Construction | Chiquita, bandeja, lob: three tools to break the rhythm and regain the net. |
| Creativity | Salida de pared and fence: two padel signatures, where anticipation makes the difference. |
Conclusion
These ten shots are not just points scored; they are moments of pure sporting magic that inspire players worldwide. They set the technical bar for seasons to come and remind us why padel captivates an ever-growing audience.
Find more padel analyses and formats on Actu Padel.
Key takeaways
- Padel 2025 confirms a trend: the higher the level, the more placement and timing matter as much as power.
- The “highlight” shots often come from a good tactical choice, not a gamble.
- To progress, it’s better to master the chiquita, bandeja, and lob before seeking the “par 4” at all costs.
