Padel is currently witnessing a significant increase in global popularity, with the sport being recognized as the world's fastest-growing game, boasting over 25 million players in 110 countries. Recently, Argentine football icon Lionel Messi teamed up with his Inter Miami colleague Luis Suarez for a padel match just prior to the Copa America football tournament. The match footage, capturing the genuine delight of both players, quickly went viral. This event follows Formula 1 drivers Max Verstappen and Lando Norris playing padel together last month after the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Other notable figures, such as tennis stars Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray, football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane, and basketball player Jimmy Butler, have also taken up the sport. Padel's appeal extends beyond sports, with celebrities like pop singer Shakira, actor Jason Statham, and French President Emmanuel Macron showing a keen interest in the racquet sport.
The reasons for padel's growing hype include its simplicity and fun nature, which allows beginners to easily engage with the game. The sport's focus on doubles play promotes social interaction and community building. Physically, padel is beneficial for strengthening knees and shoulders and is less strenuous on the arms compared to other racquet sports. The competitive yet accessible nature of padel keeps both players and spectators engaged. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of sharing court rentals among four players makes it an affordable option for many. Padel is also gender-neutral, emphasizing skill and strategy over physical strength.
According to the sport's governing body, 25 million people worldwide play padel, with the UAE being a major hub, hosting over 950 courts in more than 320 facilities. The UAE will host the inaugural event of the world's only official professional padel tour from November 3-10 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, featuring six specially built courts.
