In short
- Each pair combines a forehand side player (right side) and a backhand side player (left side).
- Partner changes are common between seasons and even mid-year.
- Chemistry and complementary styles matter as much as ranking.
- In our player profiles you'll see their current partner, synced with the FIP ranking.
In professional padel, the pair is everything. A great player without the right partner rarely wins titles, which is why every season we see moves that shake up the tour. We explain how pairs are formed, why they change and which rackets the best players use.
Forehand and backhand: two different roles
The forehand side player takes the right side. They are usually the most consistent: they build the point, defend and set up the play. The backhand sideplayer, on the left side, covers the middle with their forehand and usually takes on the decisive smashes, which is why they are often the more attacking player.
| Position | Usual role | Racket they usually look for |
|---|---|---|
| Drive (right) | Building, defending, consistency | Balance and control: teardrop or round |
| Revés (left) | Smashing, finishing points | Power: diamond or high-balance teardrop |
Why do pairs change so often?
- Results: if the pair doesn't reach the final rounds, players look for a new combination.
- Ranking: combining points with a well-ranked partner makes it easier to get into the main draws.
- Styles: two very attacking or very defensive players may not complement each other.
- Chemistry: communication on court and mutual trust are decisive in pressure moments.
Profiles of the best players
Pairs change, so we keep the information up to date in each player's profile, synced with the FIP ranking: current partner, ranking, statistics and the racket they use.
- Players: Arturo Coello, Agustín Tapia, Ale Galán, Fede Chingotto, Juan Lebrón, Franco Stupaczuk, Martín Di Nenno, Paquito Navarro, Mike Yanguas, Leo Augsburger y Jon Sanz.
- Women: Ari Sánchez, Paula Josemaría, Delfi Brea, Gemma Triay, Bea González y Martita Ortega.
The rackets of the professionals
Play with the pros' racket
All the rackets used by professional players, with up-to-date prices.
Want to understand the tour better? Read how Premier Padel works.
