Origins and Development

Padel ball, often just called “padel,” is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It was first developed in 1969 in Acapulco, Mexico, by Enrique Corcuera. With limited space at his home, Corcuera designed a smaller enclosed court surrounded by walls, creating a unique game where the ball could rebound off surfaces—something that set it apart from traditional tennis.

A Game with Latin Roots

From Mexico, padel spread quickly to Spain and Argentina, where it became ingrained in sporting culture. Its Latin roots are evident not only in its origin but also in its emphasis on social play, teamwork, and flair. Unlike tennis, padel is usually played in doubles, highlighting cooperation and fun rather than individual competition.

A Sport with History

Although padel has been around for more than five decades, its rise has been gradual. Spain and Argentina have long dominated the sport, with both countries producing the world’s top players and organizing large-scale tournaments. Over the years, its approachable style and smaller courts made it attractive to a broad audience, from casual players to professionals.

Global Popularity Today

In recent years, padel has grown beyond Latin America and Europe to become a global sensation. Countries like Italy, Sweden, and the UK have seen an explosion of padel clubs, and the Middle East has embraced it as well. Part of its appeal lies in accessibility—it requires less technical skill than tennis and is easy to pick up for all ages.

Celebrity Endorsement

Padel’s growth has been further fueled by its popularity among celebrities. Stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Serena Williams have all been spotted on padel courts. Their enthusiasm has shined a spotlight on the sport, drawing new fans and solidifying padel as one of the fastest-growing games in the world.