In padel, few moments carry as much strategic weight as the third shot. Played after your opponent’s return of serve, it’s your team’s first real opportunity to gain control of the point—or lose it entirely. While padel might be known for its fast reflexes and volley battles at the net, the third shot is where rallies are often won or lost before they even begin.

So, what exactly makes the third shot so important? And how can you master it?

Let’s break it down.

The Purpose Of The Third Shot

In essence, the third shot is your transition tool. At the start of a point, the serving team is at a positional disadvantage. Unlike tennis, where serving is an advantage, padel is a returner-friendly sport. That’s because the returning team starts closer to the net—where most points are ultimately won.

The goal of the third shot is to neutralize this imbalance. Whether it’s a soft drop shot or a deep lob, your third shot should allow you and your partner time to advance to the net and shift the pressure back onto your opponents.

Choosing The Right Type Of Third Shot

There are two main schools of thought when it comes to the third shot: lob or drop. Each has its merits, and the best players know how to mix both depending on the context.

1. The Lob

A high, deep lob is a great way to push your opponents off the net. If executed well, it forces them to retreat, giving you time to move forward and establish your own net position. It’s especially effective when your opponents are aggressive volleyers who like to crowd the net early.

The key? Height, depth, and control. A short lob is a gift to any opponent with a strong smash.

2. The Drop Shot

This is a lower-risk option that aims to land the ball softly near your opponent’s feet or just beyond the service line. A good drop shot forces your opponents to hit up, making it easier for you to attack on the next shot or transition forward safely.

Avoid playing this shot too flat or too short—it’ll either go into the net or get crushed by a fast-approaching volley.

Timing Is Everything

It’s not just what shot you play—it’s when you play it. Timing the third shot correctly depends on your reaction to the return and your partner’s position. Good communication is vital.

If the return of serve comes back deep and fast, a lob might buy you the time you need to recover. If it floats short, the drop shot can immediately put your opponents under pressure. Trust your instincts, but more importantly, read the play.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Even seasoned players make critical errors during the third shot. Here are a few to watch out for:

Rushing the shot: Trying to do too much too quickly often results in unforced errors.
Overusing one option: If you only lob or only drop, your opponents will adjust and anticipate.
Poor footwork: The third shot requires quick adjustment. Don’t be flat-footed or off-balance.
Lack of communication: One player should always take the lead in calling the shot and setting the plan.

Practicing The Third Shot Like A Pro

Repetition breeds confidence. One of the best drills you can do with a partner or coach is to simulate serve-return-third shot patterns. Focus on consistency, depth, and accuracy. Mix in both lobs and drops to improve your shot selection under pressure.

Even 15–20 minutes per session dedicated to this part of your game can create real match-day improvements.

Final Thoughts

The third shot in padel is often underappreciated, but it’s a game-changer. When played well, it lets you flip the point, control the tempo, and dominate the net. When misjudged, it can quickly put you on the back foot.

Mastering it takes time—but once you do, you’ll wonder how you ever played without it.

So next time you're on court, pay attention to your third shot. Is it giving you time to move forward? Is it putting pressure on your opponents? If not, it’s time to start reworking it—because the best padel players don’t wait for the point to come to them… they seize control from shot three.

Third Shot Strategy In Padel: How To Take Control Early