Padel traces its roots back to the 1960s when Mexican businessman Enrique Corcuera invented the sport.
Inspired by his love for tennis and the desire to create a more accessible version of the game, Corcuera designed padel as a combination of tennis and squash.
The sport gained initial popularity in Mexico, quickly spreading to other Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America.
The Rise of Padel in Spain
In the 1970s, padel made its way to Spain, where it truly began to flourish.
The country embraced the sport, and padel courts started popping up across the nation.
Its accessibility, fast-paced nature, and social aspects attracted players from all walks of life.
Spanish players like Alfonso de Hohenlohe and the Belasteguín brothers played a significant role in popularising padel and elevating its status in the sporting world.
Padel Goes International
The 1990s marked a turning point for padel as it started to gain international recognition.
Padel federations were established in various countries, and international tournaments and championships were organised.
The World Padel Tour, created in 2005, became the premier professional circuit for the sport, showcasing top-level matches and attracting a global audience.
Padel’s Key Features and Popularity
Padel’s unique features have contributed to its growing popularity worldwide.
The sport is played on a smaller court with glass walls, allowing for exciting rallies and strategic gameplay.
Its accessibility, requiring less physical exertion compared to other racquet sports, has made it appealing to players of all ages and fitness levels.
The social aspect of padel, emphasising doubles play and fostering camaraderie, has further fueled its growth.
Padel’s Global Expansion
Padel has transcended borders and gained significant traction outside of its Spanish origins.
Countries like Argentina, Brazil, Sweden, and Italy have embraced the sport, witnessing a surge in padel facilities and player participation.
Padel’s entry into the Asian market, particularly in countries like Japan and China, has further bolstered its global presence.
The Future of Padel
Looking ahead, padel’s future appears bright.
The sport continues to gain recognition and attract new players worldwide.
Its inclusion in multi-sport events like the World Games and the South American Games further solidifies its status as a mainstream sport.
Continued investment, infrastructure development, and the involvement of top athletes will likely propel padel to new heights in the coming years.
We predict it becoming a top 4 sport in the UK within the next decade.
