From the Mexican Coastline to the New York Skyline: How Padel is Taking Over the World
Photo Courtesy: Emanuela D’Ambrosi via Unsplash
From its conception on the shores of Acapulco, Mexico, padel has surged to global prominence, captivating enthusiasts from across the globe. The dynamic racket sport that blends elements of tennis and squash has experienced exponential growth, with over 25 million active players across more than 90 countries as of 2023.
The origins of padel date back to 1969, when Mexican entrepreneur Enrique Corcuera, seeking to modify his squash court, inadvertently created a new sport. By fencing the court with walls and introducing a net, Corcuera laid the foundation for padel. The game's appeal quickly transcended borders, gaining a keen following in Spain and Argentina.
The sport's allure lies in its accessibility and social nature. Played on a court smaller than a traditional tennis court and enclosed by walls, padel emphasises strategy and teamwork, making it approachable for players of all ages and skill levels. The doubles format promotes camaraderie, contributing to its popularity.
In recent years, padel's growth has been nothing short of meteoric. The sport’s global market was valued at approximately €2 billion in 2022, with projections indicating continued expansion. In Spain, it is the second most popular sport for participation, trailing only football.
Urban centres like New York City have embraced the padel phenomenon, with courts springing up to meet the expanding demand. In London, clubs like the Stratford padel club have seen demand explode since COVID, as the city's residents are drawn to padel's dynamic gameplay and social aspects, leading to a growing community of enthusiasts.
High-profile figures have further amplified padel's appeal. Notable celebrities, including the Princess of Wales and Andy Murray, have embraced the sport, increasing media coverage and credibility in the UK. Others, including tennis star Novak Djokovic, have claimed tennis is now under threat.
With the breadth of attention and investment the sport has received, padel appears destined to outcompete its sister-racket-sport pickleball and even gain the respect of the high-brow tennis community. So, whether it is played in casual matches on local courts or professional tournaments drawing international audiences, padel is poised to become a mainstay in the ever-growing world of racket sports.