Padel tennis, commonly known as Padel, is a racket sport that blends elements of tennis and squash. Played on an enclosed court roughly one-third the size of a tennis court, it’s designed for doubles and features walls that can be used in play, much like squash. The rackets are solid, perforated, and smaller than tennis racquets, and the ball is similar to a tennis ball but with slightly less pressure. Scoring in Padel is the same as tennis, making it easy for tennis players to adapt.

Padel has experienced explosive growth globally due to its accessibility, sociability, and relatively low barrier to entry compared to sports like traditional tennis. Originating in Mexico in the 1960s, it gained traction in Spain, where it is now the second most popular sport after football. Today, it’s played in over 90 countries, with courts popping up in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.

Key factors driving its growth include:

• Social Aspect: Its doubles format fosters community and fun over intense competition.
• Celebrity Influence: High-profile personalities play and promote the sport, driving awareness.
• Rapid Court Construction: Modular court designs make it easier and quicker to build new facilities.
• Support from Governing Bodies: Investments and organized tournaments like the World Padel Tour (WPT) boost visibility.

Celebrities Who Play Padel Tennis

The sport’s rise has been fueled by numerous celebrities becoming enthusiasts and advocates. Among them:

• Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Mes, David Beckham, Maria Sharapova, Andy Murray, Eva Longoria, Rafael Nadal, Zinedine Zidane, Enrique Iglesias

Padel tennis is more than just a sport; it's a global phenomenon. With its unique blend of accessibility, strategy, and social appeal, it’s set to become a staple of recreational and competitive sports worldwide. The growing participation of celebrities and the rapid expansion of facilities ensure its status as the fastest-growing sport in the world.