When retrieving a lob close to the back wall in padel, the bajada is a tactical shot. In order to keep the ball low and quickly and controllably return it to the opponent’s court, the player strikes it as it drops, usually with a slice or flat stroke.
Attacking shots like the bajada make your opponents either run forward to stop the ball before it bounces or position themselves to handle a quick rebound off the back glass. It’s an excellent method of converting a defensive stance into an offensive one!