What is Padel?
The world's fastest-growing sport combines the best of tennis and squash into an exciting, social game anyone can play.
Padel in a Nutshell
Padel (also called padel tennis or paddle tennis in some regions) is a racquet sport that blends elements of tennis and squash. It's played on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court, with glass walls and metal fencing that are part of the game.
Unlike tennis, the ball can be played off the walls after it bounces, creating longer rallies and more strategic gameplay. The underhand serve makes it accessible to beginners, while the wall play adds depth for experienced players.
Tennis-like
Same scoring, similar racquet play
Squash-like
Enclosed court, wall rebounds
Social
Always doubles, very inclusive
The Origins of Padel
Padel was invented in 1969 by Mexican businessman Enrique Corcuera in Acapulco, Mexico. When building a tennis court at his vacation home, Corcuera adapted the space by adding walls to prevent balls from escaping into the neighboring property.
What started as a practical solution became a revolutionary new sport. Corcuera established the basic rules, combining elements of tennis with the wall play that made his makeshift court unique.
Timeline of Growth
How Padel is Played
Padel is always played as doubles (2 vs 2) on a court measuring 20m x 10m. The court is enclosed by glass walls and metal mesh fencing, which are active parts of the game.
Key Differences from Tennis
- •Underhand serve (not overhead)
- •Ball can be played off walls
- •Solid paddle instead of strung racquet
- •Smaller court (⅓ the size)
- •Always doubles
Same as Tennis
- •15-30-40 scoring system
- •Best of 3 sets format
- •Diagonal serving
- •Two serve attempts
- •Tiebreaks at 6-6
The wall play creates longer rallies and more tactical gameplay. Players must read the ball off the glass, time their shots, and work together as a team. This strategic element, combined with the accessible underhand serve, makes padel enjoyable for all skill levels.
Why Padel is Taking Over
Easy to Learn
The underhand serve and enclosed court make it beginner-friendly. Most people can rally within their first session, unlike tennis which requires months of practice.
Social by Design
Always played as doubles, padel is inherently social. The smaller court keeps partners close, encouraging communication and teamwork.
Exciting Rallies
Wall play creates longer, more exciting rallies. Games are dynamic, with momentum shifts and spectacular shots that keep everyone engaged.
Lower Physical Strain
The smaller court means less running than tennis. The underhand serve and padel-specific technique are gentler on shoulders and elbows.
Affordable to Start
Padel rackets cost less than tennis rackets. Most clubs rent equipment, so you can try before investing in your own gear.
Inclusive for All Ages
From children to seniors, padel works for all ages and fitness levels. Strategy often beats pure athleticism, leveling the playing field.
Padel Around the World
Padel has exploded globally, with over 25 million players in more than 90 countries. Here's where the sport is thriving:
🇪🇸 Spain
The heartland of padel with over 6 million players and 12,000+ courts. It's the second most popular sport after football.
🇦🇷 Argentina
Home to many world-class professional players. Padel is deeply embedded in Argentine culture with clubs in every neighborhood.
🇸🇪 Sweden
Europe's fastest-growing padel market. Indoor courts have made it a year-round sport despite the Nordic climate.
🇮🇹 Italy
Padel fever has swept Italy, with courts appearing in cities and resorts nationwide. One of the fastest adoption rates in Europe.
🇺🇸 United States
Rapid growth in major metros like Miami, LA, and NYC. Predicted to be the next big market as courts multiply across the country.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Strong growth with LTA backing. New courts opening in London, Manchester, and across the country as awareness builds.
The sport's growth shows no signs of slowing. With major investment from sports stars like David Beckham, Rafael Nadal, and Lionel Messi, padel is positioned to become a mainstream global sport.
Getting Started with Padel
Ready to try padel? Here's what you need to know:
Find a Court
Search for padel courts near you. Most clubs offer court rental by the hour and can match you with other players.
Take a Lesson
Many clubs offer beginner lessons or "social padel" sessions. A quick intro covers the basics: grip, serve, and wall play.
Grab a Paddle
Start with rental equipment to find your preferences. When ready to buy, entry-level paddles start around $50-100.
Find Partners
Join local padel groups or use club apps to find players at your level. The padel community is welcoming to newcomers.
What to wear: Standard athletic wear works fine. Tennis shoes or any court shoes with good lateral support are ideal. Bring water and a towel - padel is a workout!
Ready to Try Padel?
Find one of 586+ padel courts near you and experience the world's fastest-growing sport for yourself.