Why is Padel so Popular in Spain

Padel in Spain: From Enrique Corcuera to a Global Phenomenon

Padel’s rise from a private family court in Acapulco to one of Spain’s most culturally significant sports is a story of innovation, influence and community. While Enrique Corcuera created the first court and established the foundations of the game, it was Spain that transformed padel into a sporting movement. From Marbella’s glamour to the competitive spirit of Madrid and beyond, Spain helped shape padel into what the world recognises today.

This article follows padel’s journey from Mexico to Spain and explores the social and cultural forces that turned a garden game into a global phenomenon. For the origins of padel and the story of the first court, read our companion article: How Enrique Corcuera Transformed Sport: The Story of the First Padel Court .

How Padel Arrived in Spain

When Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe first played padel at Corcuera’s home in Acapulco, he was immediately captivated by the sport’s elegance and social charm. It felt familiar yet entirely new – strategic, engaging and naturally suited to gatherings with friends.

Inspired, Hohenlohe returned to Spain and constructed the first European padel courts at the Marbella Club. This decision marked a pivotal moment in sporting history. Marbella’s reputation as a destination for international guests, thinkers and influential families meant padel quickly gained visibility and prestige.

Why Spain Became the Heart of Modern Padel

Padel resonated with Spanish culture in a way few sports have. Several conditions made the country the ideal home for this emerging game:

• A culture built around social activity – Spain values shared experiences, community and collective sport.
• A Mediterranean lifestyle – Outdoor leisure, warm weather and year-round playability fuelled participation.
• Early investment from clubs – Facilities in Marbella, Madrid and the Basque region supported rapid growth.
• Accessibility for all ages and abilities – Padel’s inclusive style made it a natural fit for families and friends.

By the 1980s, padel was no longer a novelty. It had become a cultural thread woven into Spanish leisure, identity and sport.

The Role of Spanish Clubs in Shaping Padel

Spanish padel clubs did more than offer courts; they created environments where community, sport and lifestyle intersected. The club model fostered strong relationships between players and made padel a daily ritual for many.

Events, friendly matches, coaching programmes and local tournaments helped padel grow organically. It became a sport people played not only to compete, but to connect.

Spain’s Influence on the Global Expansion of Padel

From its strong foundation in Spain, padel began to expand internationally. The country played a central role in shaping the sport’s global identity, influencing both playing style and competitive standards.

Spain’s influence reached:

• Argentina – where padel exploded into a national passion.
• Italy – now one of Europe’s fastest-growing padel markets.
• Northern Europe – driven by high-quality urban clubs and modern facilities.

By 1991, the International Padel Federation (FIP) was founded, and in 1992 the first World Championships were played. Spain’s leadership helped establish padel as an organised international sport recognised beyond its origins.

Returning to the Roots: Honouring Enrique Corcuera

As padel continues its global expansion, the essence of the game remains tied to Enrique Corcuera’s original creation: a sport shaped by creativity, movement and connection.

To understand the origins that made today’s boom possible, revisit the complete biography of the sport’s founder: Enrique Corcuera: Founder and Visionary Behind Modern Padel.

And for the story of how padel’s first court forever changed the future of sport, read: How Enrique Corcuera Transformed Sport: The Story of the First Padel Court .