The importance of the return in padel and why consistency matters
The return is often underestimated, yet it is one of the most crucial strokes in padel. According to the4Set’s latest video featuring Vici Kurz, the top-ranked padel player in Germany, the return sets the tone for the rally and can be the difference between holding serve or breaking your opponent. Vici emphasizes that the return is not just about getting the ball back—it’s about doing so with consistency and purpose. An effective return puts immediate pressure on the server, increasing the chances of breaking serve and gaining an early advantage in the match.
Vici even prefers to start matches by receiving, aiming to surprise opponents and potentially break serve right from the outset. The key takeaway: a solid, reliable return is essential for any player looking to compete at a higher level.
Adapting your return based on the serve direction
The direction of the serve dictates how you should approach your return. Vici breaks down her thought process depending on whether the serve is directed to the glass, the body, or the middle. Each scenario requires a different tactical and technical response.
- Serve to the glass: Focus on positioning and anticipation. Use the lines of the glass to set your stance, maintain a continental grip, and keep your knees bent for readiness. If the serve is fast and rebounds far, let it come out and meet it with a forward step. If it stays close to the glass or fence, anticipate early and attack the ball before it dies.
- Serve to the body: This is often uncomfortable, as it restricts your swing. The main goal is to create space—decide whether to use your forehand or backhand based on your strengths and the server’s position. Always stay low and be ready to move quickly to either side.
- Serve to the middle: This is the most variable and challenging return. Watch the bounce closely; if it lands short, take it before the glass. If it’s long, decide whether to play off the glass or take it early. For right-handed players, this is often the toughest serve to handle.
In all cases, Vici highlights the importance of moving forward after your initial step, using your body weight to generate a controlled, effective return.
Choosing the right direction and shot type for your return
Where you aim your return is as important as how you hit it. Vici recommends prioritizing consistency over risk, especially early in the match or on crucial points. When returning a serve to the glass, the safest and most effective option is usually a parallel shot—aiming down the line but not too close to the fence. This often forces the opponent into a high backhand volley, which is difficult to attack aggressively.
For serves to the body, Vici prefers returning through the middle. This reduces angles for the opponents and can disrupt their positioning. Fast, flat returns or lobs through the middle are both viable, depending on the server’s placement and your comfort with each shot.
When returning serves to the middle, especially on the first serve, Vici suggests playing low and flat through the center to set up the point. On the second serve, with more time, a well-placed lob can be effective, especially if the ball rebounds high off the glass.
Adjusting your return strategy for first and second serves
First and second serves require different approaches. The first serve is typically riskier and faster, giving you less time to react. In these situations, Vici recommends playing a safe, flat return rather than attempting a lob, which can be difficult under pressure. On the second serve, you generally have more time, making it possible to step in and execute a controlled lob or a more aggressive return.
This adaptability is crucial for maintaining consistency and minimizing unforced errors, especially when facing opponents with varied serving styles.
Handling pressure situations like golden point returns
When the match reaches a golden point, the pressure intensifies. Vici’s mindset in these situations is clear: avoid mistakes and play with confidence. If she chooses to take the return, it’s because she trusts her ability to deliver under pressure. Her tactical advice is to aim for the middle of the court, especially on the first serve, to reduce risk and keep the rally neutral. On the second serve, she often opts for a lob to ensure safety and maintain control of the point.
By focusing on consistency and smart shot selection, Vici manages the psychological demands of high-stakes moments, ensuring she doesn’t let her partner down.
Technical tips for improving your return mechanics
Throughout the demonstration, Vici provides actionable technical advice for players looking to improve their returns:
- Stay low: Bend your knees and maintain a low center of gravity to react quickly and absorb the ball’s pace.
- Short preparation: Avoid large backswings; prepare your racket early and keep movements compact, especially against fast serves.
- Move forward: After your initial step, continue moving into the court to use your body weight and maintain control.
- Anticipate and adjust: Read the serve early and be ready to change your position based on the ball’s bounce and speed.
- Block with the backhand: When possible, use a simple block with the backhand for short, controlled returns, especially when the serve is deep or fast.
These fundamentals help players handle heavy serves and maintain consistency, even when under pressure.
Key takeaways from the4Set’s return masterclass with Vici Kurz
The session with Vici Kurz on the4Set channel delivers a wealth of practical advice for padel players seeking to elevate their return game. The emphasis is always on consistency, anticipation, and smart shot selection. By adapting your return to the serve’s direction, staying low, and moving forward, you can neutralize even the strongest serves and set up your team for success. Whether facing a first or second serve, or dealing with the pressure of a golden point, these professional insights provide a clear roadmap for improving one of padel’s most important strokes.
