Padel’s Global Rise: How the Sport Conquered the World
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The Rise of Padel: From Backyard to Global Phenomenon
What started as a backyard invention has become a global sensation. Padel, a fast-paced racket sport, is now captivating players and fans across continents. But how did it all begin? Let’s explore the key milestones that shaped padel’s incredible journey.Padel's Key Historical Milestones
- 1969: Enrique Corcuera creates the first padel court in his Acapulco backyard, unintentionally giving birth to a new sport.
- 1974: Spanish aristocrat Alfonso de Hohenlohe brings padel to Marbella, Spain, helping it gain popularity among Europe’s elite.
- 1991: The International Padel Federation (FIP) is founded to standardize the sport and foster global growth.
- 2005–2010: Massive growth in Argentina, Spain, and across Latin America positions padel as a leading sport in the region.
- 2013: Launch of the World Padel Tour (WPT) turns padel into a professional sport with global recognition and elite players.
- 2020–2024: Padel expands rapidly into the UK, USA, Sweden, Italy, and the Middle East — driven by clubs, influencers, and high-profile investments.
Why Is Padel So Popular?
Padel is easier to learn than tennis, requires less space, and encourages social play — typically played in doubles. Its fun, fast-paced rallies and friendly learning curve make it ideal for all ages and skill levels.
The Future of Padel
With international tournaments, club expansions, and talks of Olympic inclusion, padel’s future looks bright. The community is growing, and now is the perfect time to get involved.
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