Change of Balls

Padel balls lose pressure over time during play, which affects bounce and feel. The FIP Rules of Padel (Rule 17) address when and how balls may be replaced during a match.

When Balls Are Changed

Ball changes, if any, must be scheduled and announced before the match begins. The competition organiser must announce in advance: the brand and type of balls, the number of balls in play (2 or 3), and the change policy.

Changes are made using one of these methods:

• After an established odd number of games — the most common format. For counting purposes:
  • The warm-up period counts as 2 games
  • A tie-break counts as 1 game
• Not at the start of a tie-break — if a scheduled change falls at the tie-break, it is delayed until the beginning of the second game of the following set
• At the beginning of a set

If a scheduled change is missed, it must be corrected when it is the turn of the team that should have had new balls first. After correction, subsequent changes continue as originally planned.

Lost or Damaged Balls

If a ball is lost or damaged during the match:

• Another ball must be put in play as soon as possible — the match may not continue with only one ball
• The Chair Umpire provides replacement balls of the same type
• If the ball is lost within the first two games after a change: a new ball is used as replacement
• If the ball is lost after two or more games since the change: a used ball of similar wear is used as replacement

Who Provides Balls

The competition organiser is responsible for specifying the approved balls. In professional FIP events, balls are provided by the tournament and managed by ball boys/girls. In club and recreational matches, players typically supply their own balls. Either team may request a count of how many games remain until the next scheduled change.

Ball Specification

Replacement balls must comply with the FIP ball specification. See ball requirements for the full specification (diameter, weight, pressure, and bounce). Read our padel balls guide for brand comparisons and buying recommendations.

Summary

Aspect	Rule
Schedule	Announced before match; after an odd number of games, or at set start
Warm-up counting	Counts as 2 games toward ball change trigger
Tie-break counting	Counts as 1 game toward ball change trigger
Tie-break timing	Ball change never at tie-break start; delayed to game 2 of next set
Ball lost within first 2 games of new set	New ball provided
Ball lost after 2+ games since change	Used ball of similar wear
Ball specification	Must meet FIP standards