Should I use a vibora or a bandeja?

🎨 Shot selection deep dive: vibora or bandeja?

Mauri Andrini, head of Hello Padel, breaks down when and how to use the vibora and bandeja.

Bandeja:

• Control over Power: The Bandeja is all about precision. This shot keeps your opponents in the back of the court.

• Flat and Forward: Contact the ball in front of your body, at 3 o’clock with the racket in a flat position, ensuring it's not too high over the net.

• Respect the Lob: Use a Bandeja when your opponent’s lob is well-executed (read: deep). It’s a defensive shot to maintain your position at the net.

Vibora:

• Low contact point: The Vibora is your go-to for winners. Contact the ball at eye-level or lower to ensure minimal rebound.

• Side Spin Advantage: This shot uses a lot of wrist action to create side spin, making it tricky for your opponent to counter.

• Aggressive Intent: When you see a weak lob, it’s Vibora time. Aim to end the point with this high-reward shot.

Key Tips:

1. Positioning: For a Bandeja, ensure contact in front of your body. Bandejas directed at the side wall or fence should be contacted higher in order to ensure net clearance.

2. Preparation: Quick and efficient footwork is crucial. Step back swiftly to get your body behind the ball. Get your racket ready with a 90° elbow ASAP.

Want to see these tips in action? Watch the full video here.

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Time for you to weigh in

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Who will win the race for 2024?

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👬🏻 Partnership Changes for Sanyo and Martita

Partnership changes are constant in padel, driven by various factors such as injuries, points, or player chemistry.

After the Italy Major, Sanyo Gutiérrez will no longer play with Maxi Sánchez and will partner with Álex Arroyo. This change, announced by 'Pádel y Cervezas', highlights Sanyo’s need for a strong backhand player to cover more of the court.

In the women's circuit, Marta Ortega and Vero Virseda will part ways despite their recent final in Bordeaux. Ortega will reunite with Portuguese player Sofi Araújo, aiming to enhance her performance against top competitors.

These changes raise questions about the future moves of other players like Maxi Sánchez and Edu Alonso. We’ll continue to monitor partner updates here.

Where to watch the Premier Padel Italy Major

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