Padel, a mix of tennis and squash played on enclosed courts, has been gaining popularity globally with over 25 million players across 110 countries. A recent highlight of this sport was when football legends Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez were seen playing a friendly game of padel just before the Copa America tournament. Other well-known personalities such as Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, Jimmy Butler, Shakira, Jason Statham, and even French President Emmanuel Macron have also expressed their fondness for the game. The sport’s appeal has been growing beyond just sports enthusiasts, attracting celebrities and public figures alike, leading to the question of why padel is getting so much hype.
One of the main reasons for the surge in padel’s popularity is its accessibility. Beginners can easily pick up the game and enjoy playing with more experienced players, thanks to the easy-to-understand rules. Padel is incredibly social, focusing on doubles play, allowing players to meet new people and make friends through clubs and matches. This social aspect helps foster communication and interactions among players, making it an attractive choice for individuals looking to connect with others. Additionally, padel is beneficial for the body, strengthening knees and shoulders while being gentler on the arms compared to other racquet sports, making it ideal for people of all ages and abilities.
Furthermore, padel appeals to the competitive spirit in players with its extended rallies and intense exchanges, keeping both players and spectators entertained. Cost-effectiveness is another factor contributing to padel’s popularity, as splitting court rental among four players makes it more affordable for sports enthusiasts. While the initial investment in equipment, particularly padel racquets, may be high, renting equipment is a cost-effective option for beginners. Moreover, padel is gender-neutral, focusing on skill and finesse rather than strength or power, providing an equal playing field for all participants. This quality has attracted a diverse range of players to the sport, contributing to its growing popularity globally.
According to the sport’s world governing body, 25 million people play padel worldwide, with the UAE embracing the sport wholeheartedly. The country houses over 950 courts in more than 320 facilities, making up 30% of all padel courts in Asia and 2% globally. The UAE will be hosting its maiden event of the official professional padel tour at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, showcasing the country’s commitment to promoting and growing the sport. With its accessible nature, social aspects, health benefits, competitive spirit, cost-effectiveness, and gender-neutral appeal, padel is set to continue its upward trajectory in the world of sports, attracting more players and enthusiasts globally.
