Padel is always played in doubles, making the partnership the key to success. While chemistry and complementarity are essential, the combination of players' dominant hands can also create a significant strategic advantage. A right-handed, left-handed pair is often considered the ideal setup. But why is a left-handed player such a valuable asset for their right-handed partner?

Optimized Court Coverage

One of the greatest strengths of a right-handed, left-handed pair is the symmetry it creates on the court. The right-handed player is typically positioned on the left and the left-handed player on the right.

• The center of the court, a strong point: This configuration means each player covers their side of the net with their forehand (the most powerful and secure shot for most players). This allows the pair to cover the central zone, often a weak point in a right-handed, right-handed duo, with two powerful forehands, making this area particularly difficult for opponents to attack.

• A racket always facing the center: Volleys and smashes can be hit with each player's forehand by positioning themselves facing the net, which offers more power and security.

Varied and Unpredictable Shots

The natural hitting angles of a right-handed and a left-handed player are different, which can destabilize opponents and create new opportunities.

• Different smash angles: A left-handed player on the right can perform a smash that opens up to the right, sending the ball towards the opponent's right-side player. A right-handed player, on the other hand, has a smash that opens to the left. This variety can make the game unpredictable and force the opponent to move constantly.

• More decisive forehands: The setup allows both players to hit forehands in most situations. "Bandejas" and other approach shots can be more easily executed with each player's strong hand.

The Legendary Right-Handed, Left-Handed Pairs of the World Tour

The history of padel is marked by legendary duos who have masterfully exploited the advantages of this unique combination.

• Agustín Tapia (right-handed) and Arturo Coello (left-handed): This duo, one of the most dominant in recent padel history, embodies the perfection of this partnership. Arturo Coello's explosive power and speed on the right complement perfectly with Agustín Tapia's talent, elegance, and ability to finish points on the left.

• Fernando Belasteguín (right-handed) and Sanyo Gutiérrez (left-handed): This duo made history in the sport. Sanyo's tactical intelligence, his ability to "read" the game, married perfectly with Bela's power, experience, and legendary perseverance.

• Martin Di Nenno (left-handed) and Franco Stupaczuk (right-handed): The "Superpibes" duo brilliantly demonstrated the ideal balance between offense and defense. Di Nenno's defensive solidity, combined with Stupa's aggressiveness and finishing quality, made them a formidable pair.

Conclusion: Communication, the Key to Success

While the right-handed, left-handed combination offers undeniable strategic advantages, it is not a guarantee of victory. Communication remains the most important factor. Knowing who takes the ball in the center, encouraging your partner, and adapting your strategy on the fly are the real keys to turning this partnership into a winning machine. It is the chemistry between the two players that makes the difference, even if nature gave them a little helping hand.