The Rise of Padel
Padel began in Mexico in the 1960s and quickly gained traction in Spain and Argentina, where it has become a staple of the sporting culture. Over the last decade, Padel’s popularity has surged globally, with courts popping up across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. The sport’s appeal is in its accessibility. It’s easy to learn, fast-paced, and social, making it as enjoyable for beginners as for experienced players. As more discover its unique blend of strategy, athleticism, and fun, padel continues to be one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
Did You Know?
Padel is easy to pick up but has a few unique rules that make it distinct from tennis and other racquet sports. Played on a smaller court surrounded by glass walls, it’s fast-paced, social, and highly strategic — perfect for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re new to the game or just need a refresher, here are the basics:
Played on an enclosed court with walls, similar to squash.
The ball must bounce on the court before hitting the walls.
Players can return shots off of the walls.
Serves are hit underhand diagonally into the opponent’s service box.
Scoring follows traditional tennis rules (15, 30, 40, game), with matches typically played in best-of-three or best-of-five sets.
Also like tennis, the ball can only bounce once before being returned.
Volleys are allowed except on the serve.
Fun Facts about Padel Rackets
Unlike tennis or badminton rackets, padel rackets have a solid surface with perforations, offering better control and power.
The holes in the racket reduce air resistance, making swings faster and more precise.
Padel rackets are made from materials like carbon fiber, fiberglass, and EVA foam, balancing durability, flexibility, and power.
Padel rackets are designed with a specific sweet spot that maximizes control and minimizes vibration — especially helpful for newer players.
Rackets come in three shapes: round, diamond, and teardrop — each offering different balances of power, control, and maneuverability.