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The other pair are arguing with each other. What do you do?
Arguing opponents stop calling the middle. Play the middle, keep your tempo, and let the points pile up.
Your opponents have started blaming each other for errors. How should your pair respond?
Arguing opponents stop calling the middle. Play the middle, keep your tempo, and let the points pile up.
Why
A pair that has started arguing has stopped functioning as a pair. They stop calling balls, stop moving together, and each starts trying to win the point alone. The middle of the court is where that shows: middle balls need a call, and a pair not talking does not call. So the tactic is simple: keep your own rhythm steady, play through the middle more than usual, and let them lose the points that a functioning pair would win. Do not slow the game down, do not go for more, and do not engage. The best response to a pair falling apart is to be the pair that is not.
What this means at your level
Beginner
If the other pair start blaming each other, hit more balls down the middle. Neither of them will want it.
Intermediate
Keep your own communication loud and positive. It contrasts with theirs and reminds them of what they have stopped doing.
Advanced
Watch for the reconciliation. A pair that has argued and then regrouped often plays their best padel of the match. Bank the games while it lasts.
Common questions
Your opponents have started blaming each other for errors. How should your pair respond?
Keep your rhythm and hit through the middle. Arguing opponents stop calling the middle. Play the middle, keep your tempo, and let the points pile up. A pair that has started arguing has stopped functioning as a pair. They stop calling balls, stop moving together, and each starts trying to win the point alone. The middle of the court is where that shows: middle balls need a call, and a pair not talking does not call. So the tactic is simple: keep your own rhythm steady, play through the middle more than usual, and let them lose the points that a functioning pair would win. Do not slow the game down, do not go for more, and do not engage. The best response to a pair falling apart is to be the pair that is not.
Why not slow the game down to let them stew?
Slowing down gives them time to reconcile. Keep your normal tempo and let the points do the work.
What should a beginner do here?
If the other pair start blaming each other, hit more balls down the middle. Neither of them will want it.
How does this change for an advanced player?
Watch for the reconciliation. A pair that has argued and then regrouped often plays their best padel of the match. Bank the games while it lasts.
Puzzles like this one
Both of them are at the net. What is the highest-percentage ball?
Only the lob moves a net pair backwards. Everything else invites them forward.
intermediateWhat do you do with the return of serve?
The return lob is how the receiving pair steals the net. Aim over the player who is still moving.
advancedThey are camped at the net and you cannot lob. What now?
If you cannot lift it over them, make them lift it for you. The chiquita is a slow ball at their feet.