Padel sports are gaining global attention at an extraordinary pace. From Mexico to Spain, Argentina, the UK, and now Asia, the game has become a worldwide sensation with more than 30 million players. Often described as the fastest-growing racquet game, it combines the strategy of squash, the excitement of tennis, and the social fun of doubles play, making it appealing to both beginners and professionals.
The Origins of Padel Sports: From Mexico to the World
The story of padel sports begins in 1969 in Acapulco, Mexico, when Enrique Corcuera and his wife Viviana built the first enclosed court at their holiday home. Measuring 20m x 10m, the cement court with wire fencing was designed to keep the ball in play and avoid interruptions.
This design made the game fast, continuous, and accessible. By the mid-1970s, it had spread to Spain and Argentina, where it became a cultural phenomenon.
Understanding the Rules of the Game
Padel looks similar to tennis at first glance but has its own unique set of rules:
- Court Size: One-third the size of a tennis court (20m x 10m).
- Format: Played mainly in doubles.
- Racquets: Solid, stringless racquets designed for quick reactions.
- Balls: Slightly smaller and lower-pressure than tennis balls.
- Serving: Always underarm and below the waist.
- Walls in Play: The ball can rebound off glass or mesh walls, just like squash.
- Scoring: Same point system as tennis (15, 30, 40, game).
This unique setup creates long rallies and an emphasis on placement, teamwork, and reflexes.
Why the Sport Is So Popular Globally
Several factors explain the rapid success of this racquet game:
- Easy to Learn – Players can start enjoying rallies immediately.
- Social Interaction – Doubles play keeps the game engaging.
- Space Efficiency – Up to three courts fit into the space of one tennis court, making it attractive for clubs.
- Celebrity Appeal – Icons like David Beckham, Serena Williams, and Lionel Messi have embraced the game.
- Health Benefits – A match can burn 400–700 calories per hour, improve reflexes, and is easier on joints than squash or tennis.
- Spectator Friendly – Glass walls make it exciting to watch live and on TV.
How the Game Spread Worldwide
The growth of padel has been nothing short of explosive:
- Spain – The second-most played sport after football.
- Argentina – A powerhouse since the 1980s, producing world-class players.
- Europe – Italy, Sweden, and France are building new courts rapidly.
- United Kingdom – From 350 courts in 2023 to 1,000 across 325 venues by mid-2025.
- Worldwide – Over 63,000 courts exist, with projections of 70,000 by 2026 according to the International Padel Federation.
Health and Fitness Benefits for Players
Beyond entertainment, this racquet sport delivers powerful health benefits:
- Cardio Boost – Improves stamina and endurance.
- Agility and Reflexes – Fast-paced rallies sharpen coordination.
- Joint Friendly – Less strain than many other high-impact sports.
- Mental Benefits – Reduces stress while promoting focus and strategy.
These advantages make the game attractive to people of all ages, from teens to older adults looking for a fun yet effective workout.
