What is padel, the racket sport taking the world by storm?
Padel is a rapidly growing racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Originating in Mexico, it has gained immense popularity in Europe and North America, with over 35 million players worldwide. The sport is known for its sociability and accessibility, making it appealing to a wide range of participants.
- ▪Padel is played on a 20-metre by 10-metre court encased in glass and is exclusively played in doubles.
- ▪The sport has seen a significant increase in popularity, with over 14,000 new courts built in 2025 alone.
- ▪Professional athletes like Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Rafael Nadal are known to play padel and some even own professional teams.
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Open this photo in gallery:Canadian actor Simu Liu attends BERO Padel Classic at Pura Padel on April 29, in Sherman Oaks, California.Leon Bennett/Getty ImagesShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountThe weather is warm and you’re looking for excuses to be outside. Want to join a social sport like pickleball, but with a little more athletic intensity? Then padel might be for you.Padel originated in Mexico and gained traction in Central and South America and Spain more than 50 years ago but has exploded in popularity in the rest of Europe and North America in recent years.
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