Hello, sports enthusiasts,
There’s a new game in town that’s taking the sports world by storm - Paddle Tennis, also known as Padel. This fast-paced, easy-to-learn sport is quickly becoming a favourite among both casual players and serious athletes. But what’s all the fuss about? Let’s dive in!
A Global Phenomenon Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports globally, with over 25 million players in over 90 countries worldwide. In Britain alone, there are now just shy of 150 padel courts, spread across 66 venues. The sport has seen a fivefold increase in popularity in Italy, with almost 5,000 courts built since early 20203.
Why the Hype? The beauty of Padel lies in its accessibility. It’s fun, flexible, and easy to play. The strategic move to bring Padel under its operations aligned with the LTA’s vision to open up tennis and find new ways to grow participation. The sport is a blend of tennis and squash, played on an enclosed court a third the size of a tennis court. The rules are simple and the equipment is minimal - all you need is a solid racket and a ball.
The Future of Padel The future of Padel looks bright. The demand for courts, in 2021 and moving into 2022, is huge, which is the main driver of growing participation in Padel. It’s estimated around 15,000 new padel courts were registered in Europe in 20212.
The sport was introduced to South Africa in late 2019, with the first court launched at Val de Vie Estate in Paarl2. Since then, the sport has grown rapidly, with currently 90 venues and a total of 276 courts across the country. Several organizations are pioneering the growth of Padel in South Africa. For instance, Padel SA was the first registered Padel business in the country, and they opened South Africa’s first Padel store. Another key player is the South African Padel Association (SAPA), which serves as the official home of South African Padel.
The sport’s popularity can be attributed to its accessibility and social nature. It’s easier than Tennis but still provides an excellent workout. The small court size facilitates fun social interactions during play, and many Padel clubs offer refreshments or dining options, creating a community atmosphere.
Moreover, technology has made it easier for people to find and book games. The universal Playtomic App allows players to find and book a court at a convenient time and share a link to the game so friends can join.
In conclusion, Padel is more than just a sport in South Africa; it’s a growing community that promotes fitness, fun, and social interaction. So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete looking for a new challenge, or a beginner seeking a fun and social way to stay active, Padel might just be the sport for you. Grab a racket, gather some friends, and join the Padel revolution!
Happy Padeling!
Your Boutique Gym Management Team.
Aktiv60